Album Review
“Milky Way Rising” by Hourstone
When it comes to making pop music that isn’t all about the tired stereotypes that have driven so many of its most ardent supporters away from the genre, few do it better than Hourstone does. The solo artist and frequent indie collaborator has been cutting some magnetic music in the last few years, and in his most recent effort “Milky Way Rising” featuring none other than the talented Amanda Kang, he arguably goes bigger than ever. Conceptually speaking, Hourstone is determined to expand on a fluid style of arranging introduced to us in previous releases by incorporating additional elements of instrumentation into the fabric of his sound, rendering what can only be described as a new strain of techno-inspired pop that is as rooted in balladry as it is an old school club beats.
With Kang by his side to emotionally colorize the lyrics in the song, this player tears through the rhythm of the track with a swagger that is unlike anything we’ve heard from him before, proving himself to be one of the most confident and charismatic performers of his currently-exploding scene along the way.
Produced with exquisite attention to detail, Hourstone ensures that every intricate facet within the tonality of the music is given VIP treatment behind the soundboard in the song. Every part of the mix is contributing to the larger narrative in “Milky Way Rising,” starting with the soothing radiance of the synth-born melody chasing the bassline in the background.
It helps to keep the intensity in Amanda Kang’s sensuous lyrics firing on all cylinders by breaking down some of the ominousness in the beats, but moreover, it adds a layer of melancholic undertow to the mood in the verses that wouldn’t be there otherwise. When Kang takes over the epicenter of the groove, the bass is toned down a bit, and the space that it leaves behind in the master mix is quickly filled by an exotic serenade which is as much of a reason to pick up “Milky Way Rising” as Hourstone’s definitively clever arranging is.
If you’ve yet to hear the music of Hourstone, this single is an optimal way to familiarize yourself with his skill set and the enthralling charm that he tends to unleash in every track that he shares with the public. I’ve been keeping a close eye on his career for a minute now, and I must say that, while I was expecting a lot out of this song, I never anticipated being as enamored by the highly stylized cosmetics of either as I was. The concept for “Milky Way Rising” is, much like the single itself, a kaleidoscopic effort from all angles that focuses on the might of its melody more than anything else. Neither Hourstone nor Amada Kang have submitted anything of a subpar quality to the fans to date, and with “Milky Way Rising,” this pair takes an evolving sound to a level of engagement that I cannot wait to hear a lot more of shortly.
Bethany Page
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Album Review
Couldn’t Be Happiers unleashes a harmonious ode to modern existence with its EP “Couple(t)s Side A”
Get ready to be enchanted as North Carolina’s folk-rock duo Couldn’t Be Happiers invites listeners into their universally resonant anthems by releasing their eagerly awaited EP masterpiece, “Couple(t)s Side A.” This ambitious and heartfelt six-track collection brimm with introspection, poetic storytelling, and bold sonic exploration. The timeless melodies EP showcases the duo’s signature blend of heart-on-sleeve authenticity and genre-defying artistry.
More than a clever title, “Couple(t)s Side A” celebrates Jodi Hildebran Lee (playing drums, vocals, harmonica) and Jordan Crosby Lee (guitar, vocals) both as a married couple and as fervent admirers of poetic couplets. Produced in collaboration with Doug Davis of Flytrap Music Production, the EP is a testament to the duo’s harmonious synergy that defines their partnership in music and life. Organized thematically into categories of romantic compositions, protest anthems, and folk narrative ballads, the EP interweaves a complex tapestry of emotion, resulting in a work that is both diverse and cohesive.
The EP evocatively begins with “Come Back Tomorrow,” a euphoric folk-rock brilliance brimming with optimism and hope. With assertive harmonies and striking lead vocals, the track embodies a poignant reflection on the resilience of love and community amidst the uncertainties of modern life. The title track, “When I Die,” follows with a soulful warmth that lays bare life’s imperfections through melancholic yet therapeutic tones.
Each subsequent track deepens the EP’s emotional and thematic complexity. “Plastic Bag Odyssey (I’ll Never Die)” delivers a skillfully crafted critique against societal ills, while “Tear It Down” electrifies with timeless folk-infused grooves and emotive instrumentation. The haunting “Devil’s Tramping Ground” pairs dynamic beats with a dreamlike atmosphere, exploring the euphoria of discovery. Closing the EP, “Pretty Polly” leaves an indelible mark with its hauntingly introspective folk narrative, with trembling vibrato and seamless narrative flow.
With robust instrumentation including sousaphone, melodica, accordion, and musical saw, “Couple(t)s Side A” captures the essence of the duo’s dynamic live performances while pushing the boundaries of their artistry. It’s a sonic odyssey that invites listeners into the intimate, heartfelt world of Couldn’t Be Happiers, blending classic folk vibes with modern, introspective charm.
This EP marks a significant milestone in the duo’s growing discography, highlighting their unique approach to songwriting and storytelling. As Couldn’t Be Happiers continues to evolve and innovate, “Couple(t)s Side A” firmly solidifies its place as an exciting rising voice in the folk-rock scene.
For more information about Couldn’t Be Happiers, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Couldn’t Be Happiers’ EP “Couple(t)s Side A“ on Spotify.
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Album Review
Raised on Candy unveils sonic brilliance with its self-titled album that redefines rock’s nostalgia
Raised on Candy, the electrifying rock trio born from the creative pulse of the San Francisco Bay Area and New York Tri-State has unveiled its eponymous debut self-titled album. With a nod to the golden age of ’90s rock and the raw edge of post-punk and shoegaze, the album promises a transcendent journey that redefines modern rock’s emotional and melodic possibilities.
The 12-track opus marks a significant milestone for the band, featuring Joe Penna (vocals/guitar), Scotty Imp (drums/percussion), and Kevin Harris (bass/vocals). Produced by legendary engineer Steve Albini, “Raised on Candy” is rumored to be their final recorded project, adding an air of historical significance to this groundbreaking release.
The album commences with the invigorating track “Nishuane Park,” characterized by an energizing and euphoric melody alongside a compelling rhythm that underscores the evocative potential of rock music. This introductory song is promptly succeeded by the soul-baring “Lonely Bill,” imbued with melancholic undertones and introspective depth. Subsequent tracks such as “Midnight Creeper” and “Rococo” exemplify the band’s sonic versatility for weaving deftness and soulfulness with dynamic guitar and piano interplay to create rich musical pieces that resonate through a timeless lens of the listener’s emotional clarity.
“Raised on Candy” extends beyond a singular vision. The energetic vibrancy of “Like A Bird” juxtaposes with the nostalgic smoothness of “Maxing The Clink,” creating contrasting yet complementary auditory experiences. Furthermore, compositions such as “Reunion,” “The Ponderosa,” and “Big Game Hunter” engage in profound sonic exploration, eliciting deep emotional resonance. Other tracks include “Soft Metal“ and “Ora.” The album culminates with the hauntingly beautiful track “Whisper Me Your Wish,” which envelops listeners in a synthesis of introspection and melodic excellence.
Every track on “Raised on Candy” attests to the band’s meticulous craftsmanship and relentless pursuit of authentic artistic expression. From shimmering guitar melodies to poignant lyricism, the album traverses a vast emotional landscape, cementing the trio’s place as a powerful force in today’s music scene.
Raised on Candy’s self-titled album is a collection of musical expertise and a profoundly personal adventure through the band’s sonic evolution. It’s a must-listen for rock enthusiasts and anyone yearning for an authentic, introspective experience. “Raised on Candy” is poised to resonate with listeners, solidifying the band’s legacy as pioneers of a new rock renaissance.
For more information about Raised on Candy, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Raised on Candy’s Album “Raised on Candy“ on Spotify.
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