Spring Songs

With each new season comes new music and the hopes for summer concert series. Here are just a few new EPs and LPs fresh for the spring picking…up.

WAZU—Brooklyn by way of Australia, this duo has been garnering attention in the scene with their unique blend of catchy beats and distorted sounds. Their electronic on acid approach is ideal for car stereos as well as dance floors. They are set to release their debut LP this summer. Go to the group's website for up-to-date information. Download their track, “Murder 1” here for free. The EP is out now.

Wave Sleep Wave—Jerry Adler, formerly of The Blam & Flugente, brings his unique blend of looped guitars and enigmatic voice to his new project. Go to the website for more news. Check out his single, “Hey… What?” here. This CD is available in disc and digital download now.

Xavier Rudd—Clearly the most unique music SideOneDummy Records has the pleasure of putting out this year, Rudd delivers a melodic fusion of folk guitars and aboriginal chants. Rudd is a master of mixing world influences; this is his seventh album. This disc sets itself apart from
everything else on the racks. “Bow Down,” Butterfly,” and “Full Circle” excel. Go to his website for more information. Spirit Bird will be out June 5.

River Seven—This Canadian band has clearly listened to a lot of Maroon 5 and inherited all most of their strengths. Pop and soul converge on this debut album. Enjoy the grooves here. This album is out now.

The Elkcloner—Composer/producer Filip Metrovic delivers jazz vocalist Rose Colella in this live recording. There are no samples, just a one-of-a-kind blend of catchy beats. Each tune is extremely catchy and worth a second listen. Go to the website for more information. Check the free download track, “Crossfire” here . Album out now in digital download only.

Candlebox—The newest incarnation of this 90s act has been touring here and abroad as well as playing for the troops. They’ve recently released Love Stories & Other Musings, which features nine new, hard-hitting tracks, as well as five re-recorded songs. Kevin Martin’s (lead singer) voice is just as powerful as it was twenty years ago. The album is peppered with country as well as blues influences. Go to the band’s website for the latest touring information.  This CD is available now.

Branden Daniel & The Chics—Beach-ready tunes are delivered by this debut album, Keep Em Flying. Reminiscent of old Rhythm & Blues, this disc features many songs that could easily fall under the Surfer Rock category, akin to the Beach Boys. Go to the band’s site for more news. Download “All Things Chic” for free here.

MXPX—Not every band has the ability to endure the industry for twenty years, yet MXPX thrives. Now with Plans Within Plans, pop-scented punk never sounded so good. The kids think this sub-genre started with Blink182; try again. The band is plating some anniversary shows with Amber Pacific or Set Your Goals, Mest, and Rufio. This 13-track LP is a delicious throwback to a time when instrumentals and lyrics meant something. The album’s current lyrics however do not belong “In the Past,” drift ambitiously and “looking forward to better days.” See the band’s website for more touring information.

Clearly there are tons of options for those looking to put new tunes in their ears instead of sand.