Released hot on the heels of the warmest year on record (2024), the London-based indie artiste’s new single is a classically entertaining lament of a relationship going sour. Or – is it in actual fact a highly eloquent piece of political commentary on the inevitable global climate disaster, the probability of humankind doing fuck all about it before it’s too late and we’re all going to die a terrible heat-induced death soon enough? Well, perhaps a bit of both, but you decide. “Future Is an F Word” was produced by Teaboy Palmer – the Brian Wilson of West Hampstead. Let’s enjoy it while we may.

Crow Follow’s shaman rock and urban cabaret brings glowing brightness to the darkest tunes. Risen from the vibe of a diverse and energetic music scene in Boston MA, Crow Follow celebrates and transcends it. Their DNA is from the Art Rock, Low Rock, and Post Punk scenes of the late 20th century, filtered through the usual smoldering warehouses and sketchy sugar shacks of the American Hinterland

OKINAWA PLANE CRASH is a 4 piece DIY punk band with heavy nu-metal and garage rock influences. On January 4th, 2025, they released their 3rd self-funded album, WIZARDS OF THE WEST SIDE. The first track, “MACHETE” (seen as “BILLIE EILISH MACHETE” on physical CD’s), takes the listener to an alternate reality in which Billie Eilish has had enough of fame. Run as she wields a machete, and dance to the instrumental break as she chases you through the woods!! There’s never been a slasher thriller this fun…

With the EP “These Painted Flowers”, the pandemic album project started in 2020 is at long last complete. The full album “Muddy River” has four EP parts. Part One: “On A Day Like That” has been on line since late 2021. Part Two: “Town Line” added more stories at the start of December 2024. Part Three: Imaginatively called “Three”, its three extended tracks are a collection of songs and rants. Part Four: “These Painted Flowers” wraps it all up.

Hailing from Portland, OR, Sorry Holly is a post-punk trio ten years in the making. Life gets in the way in many shapes and forms, keeping the band apart for a few scattered years. But in 2023, the band headed to Chicago, IL to record their first full length with producer Simon Small at Type One Studios. The debut album Use Your Heart is a dedication to lost loves and forgotten friends. A sonic wave of emo noise with an energetic live show to match. Sorry Holly is ready to give you a demonstration in poetic rock and roll justice.

‘Turn Off The Lights’ is the second single from the forthcoming CMON CMON EP Headwind to be released on March 14 2025. The single was produced by British producer James Brown, recorded at Trypoul Studio in The Netherlands and mixed at JBJ Studio in Portobello Road, London, UK. Mastering was done by Carl Saff in Chicago, USA.

Tidal Water is the brainchild of Martin Hovden, a passionate vocalist, songwriter, and producer from Oslo, Norway. Martin, the primary visionary and financial backer, infuses his deep societal concerns and personal experiences into Tidal Water’s music. His background in project management and event production enables him to bring a unique blend of powerful rock music to life, enhanced by the collaboration of talented friends from his musical journey.

The Muster Point Project (TMPP) kicks off 2025 with a quick little indie rock number. Bordering on proto-punk, “Darlin’” takes off in standard hard rock fashion but departs quickly in the bridge, venturing into progressive territory, giving listeners a bit of a twist, lyrically and musically.

The album explores themes of patriotism, art, protest, and belonging through the lens of someone who’s spent years watching others tell their stories. From the Metropolitan Museum of Art* (“Rothko”) to the backroads of *Kentucky (“Rose Hill”), Brown crafts detailed narratives that challenge listeners to examine their own roles in America’s ongoing drama.

“Venture Cowboys” is the first single taken from Mitch Rocket’s performance at the Retro-Future Revue 2024. The full EP Live at the Retro-Future Revue is set for release in April 2025.

Martha’s Vineyard, MA-based folkie James first caught my ear backing former Family Circus/Plum Nelly roots-rocker Billy Stoner on his engaging “lost” self-titled 1980 solo album, issued by Team Love in 2017 along with her own 1979 At Longview Farm and 2016’s When You Get Old. Now 74, her luxuriant voice has lost nothing in 45 years.

“Maybe there’s times we do want to be owned and dominated by music. We long for something discordant and transgressive. Or do we really need to sit in the corner and weep uncontrollably? But when we’re not in any of those moods, when we do want to be loved, when we just need to meet up with a crew of good souls who mean us well, there’s an album like Native Tongue. It’s more of an invitation to a place, the invention of a certain space where we’re welcome to hang out. “

“Under A Stone” draws inspiration from iconic bands like The Smiths, The Cure, and the Sundays. The track encapsulates the theme of solitude and acceptance, reflecting MatAre’s personal experience of living apart from loved ones. With a blend of upbeat melodies and introspective lyrics, this release stands out for its candid exploration of universal themes, turning despair into a matter of contemplation and resilience. Recorded in MatAre’s traveling home studio in Fort Walton Beach, this single features unique guitar tones that pay homage to the spirit of 80s new wave music, promising listeners a captivating musical journey.

HØME, shaped by projects like MAYFAIR, e suppoze, and The Naughty Daughters, have influenced the alternative rock scene for over three decades. With their first EP, Finding North, the four musicians begin a new chapter. After drawing attention with “Shivering and Cold” and “Sun to God” in 2023, their 2024 singles “Good Times” and “Electric Love” expanded their streaming audience. “Electric Love” stands out with its dynamic energy, perfect for the colder months.

Rarely are solitary musicians recording albums at home sans others as talented as Buffalo, NY’s prolific James Froese; unlike 2023’s Patterns, whose second half was solo acoustic, on this third LP he replicates a seasoned alt-rock/emo band throughout.

Music producer Brainheart has joined forces with singer-songwriter Michael Shynes to release a captivating new single, “Living in My Headphones.” This song is about those moments when the world feels overwhelming, and music becomes your refuge. At its core, “Living in My Headphones” is an anthem for anyone seeking solace in music during life’s most challenging moments. The song captures a person’s internal dialogue, navigating feelings of isolation, self-discovery, and resilience.

Flock of Indifference is a dynamic rock band that blends the brooding intensity of post-punk with the electrifying energy of modern rock. Formed by a group of kindred spirits who met in Philadelphia, the band channels a raw, unapologetic sound that resonates with disillusioned hearts and restless souls.

Lauren Ash is a TV actress you may know from her portrayal of Dina on NBC’s “Superstore” for 6 years. She’s also most recently been seen as Lexi in the ABC series “Not Dead Yet”. And now, for the first time in her life, she is living out her childhood dream of releasing her own music! Her musical style has been compared to Paramore and “if Gwen Stefani fronted Blink 182”. This is truly a passion project that she couldn’t be more excited to share with the world.

Sheykh Forever is a factory for infectious earworms from somewhere between yesteryear and the distant future. Its writer, producer and principal performer, Iraqi-born Mostafa Al, fuses disco, heavy rock and hypnagogic indie pop—all slathered with a fat dose of booty-bouncing funk. Written, produced, and recorded entirely at his home studio, his new single “Run for cover” delivers an enchanting and unique take on the classic anti-war anthem, with influences ranging from the psychedelic taunts of The Flaming Lips to the emotive drama of Janis Joplin.

With grinding, rumbling basslines, wailing guitars, versatile synths shifting from retro to modern, thundering drums, and vocals that croon and scream, our sound is inspired by The Velvet Underground, Kate Bush, Tool, Prodigy, Yes, Clash, Bowie, Porcupine Tree, Pink Floyd, and a relentless passion for the music they love.

Sandcastle is an intense and very deep album based on an original treatment written by Sante Sabbatini, Francesco Braida and Filippo Novelli, out now as a Graphic Musical. Mardi Gras takes us on a introspective journey full of emotional tensions that highlight man’s fragility and insecurities, but at the same time enhances his strength and beauty.

Los Angeles band Sons of Silver is set to deliver their debut full-length album, Runaway Emotions, in January 2025. This release features classic rock ‘n’ roll infused with apocalyptic post-punk fury, echoing the protest music of the sixties and seventies. The ten tracks offer a full-throttle rallying cry—guitar, bass, drums, and keyboards—to preserve our freedom and collective humanity in the divisive aftermath of the lockdown.

Jason Masi’s newest release, “Pretty”, is a sexy retro pop rock song that is sure to get listeners in the groove with its tantalizing rhythm and infectious melodies. It is an animalistic theme of desire for a subject of fascination with a recognition that the hypnotic power of physical beauty has left the narrator helpless to escape the subject’s allure. This song captures the nature and power of physical attraction despite one’s self.

It’s not every day Minneapolis music royalty comes together and makes an album to leap out and grab the soul.” Grabs the soul indeed. Melody, heart, power pop and drive. With Love & Fury the Sam Graber Band has delivered one of the finest local rock albums in years.
The shifting balance between the love lyrical and the fury manic, that’s the album.

Striking beauty, dynamic powerhouse vocals, coupled with her songwriting prowess, Jennifer Marie delivers a moving performance with her sophomore EP, Do It All Again. After great success of her debut album You Can Whisper, Jennifer Marie felt the pull to explore her love of soulful, pop music that shifts her from her prior project.

Sienna Wileman is a British singer-songwriter and actor. She began writing songs at the age of 7 on the guitar and soon after learnt to write them on piano. At the age of 14, she released her debut single ‘Petals’ in February 2022. She is an indie dark-pop artist who writes lyrics based on her own experiences and inspiration from other artists.

Rising alternative rock artist Thurtythree has unveiled their latest single, “Control”, an emotionally charged track that encapsulates the turmoil of loss, frustration, and the desperate fight to regain stability. Known for their haunting melodies and evocative lyrics, Thurtythree once again proves their ability to create deeply relatable music with a sound that’s as fresh as it is nostalgic.

Philadelphia-based art-rock duo Tulipomania present their sixth album ‘Absolution’, inspired by an invitation from acclaimed author Jeff VanderMeer to contribute music as part of the publication of his latest novel ‘Absolution’, the surprise fourth volume in his award-winning ‘Southern Reach’ series.

Rising solo artist Mary Strand’s debut album, Golden Girl, dropped in 2023. Her forthcoming second album, I Don’t Need Your Permission, takes a big musical leap forward as she comes into her own sound and fully embraces musical influences from the garage rock, punk rock, and power pop eras of rock and roll. She has truly found her own voice.

“Distant Land” is the second single from Talk in Vain, offering a heavier and more dynamic sound compared to their debut, “Her Case.” This track demonstrates the band’s evolving style, blending powerful hard rock energy with gripping melodies. Magnus Hellman and Jessica Lindman craft a sound that is both bold and accessible, aiming to connect with rock fans worldwide.

Set to grace the music scene on 10th Jan 2025, “Sweet Pea” by Silent Income is a labor of love that has been three years in the making. The track exudes a playful and carefree vibe, showcasing the duo’s knack for creating memorable melodies and whimsical guitar solos. Recorded in various locations including Sam’s home studio and Union St Studios, this release stands out for its organic and collaborative recording process, capturing the essence of Silent Income’s creative journey. With a quote likening the track to an “endless summer’s day,” this single promises to leave a lasting impression on fans of indie-pop music.

Death of the Story are Jim Harley and Dean Morton and their influences include Fad Gadget, Ministry, Fat White Family, LCD Soudsystem, Talking Heads, Hot Chip, Swans and Death in Vegas

“Quizá Mañana” is the new album by Infierno de Dante, a work that explores the contrasts of 60s psychedelic rock. Through eight carefully crafted songs, composed by its seven members, the band creates an introspective journey that delves into themes such as the fleeting moments of life and the relationship with various substances, both physical and emotional.

“Good in Blue” was born from late-night jam sessions, weaving soulful lyrics with a driving alt-rock sound. It reflects a journey of self-discovery and emotional release, crafted with layers of synths and dynamic guitar riffs.

1919, a poignant and emotionally charged record that exemplifies the heart and soul of his punk rock roots and transformation to his Americana sound. With rich storytelling and an authentic sound, 1919 is more than just a new record it’s an entirely new direction for ChiodoSupply.

With influences ranging from legendary artists like BB King, Muddy Waters, Odetta, and Nina Simone, Terry Blade’s “Tell ‘Em” resonates with a deep sense of perseverance and hope. Drawing inspiration from the haunting sadness of Nina Simone, the rawness of Muddy Waters, and the minimalism of BB King, Terry Blade delivers a powerful message through his music.

Born in Canada to French parents, Elea lived in Hemmingford until age 5 when her family moved to Dharamsala, India for her father to pursue Tibetan medicine studies. She subsequently spent a few years in the south of France before moving to Bristol, UK at 16 to study music. Releasing a string of singles, “Lust”, “Trigger” and “Sacrifice”, to critical acclaim in her idiosyncratically “towering sound reminiscent of PJ Harvey and Feist”, she was touted as “a millennial Patti Smith”. Albeit being Gen Z, she decided not to correct the journalist for the (hopefully only partly) erroneous compliment.

Formed in 2024 when Abigail Hill joined the project, Awaiting Abigail is, in part, a reunion of three high school classmates who were in bands together in the mid to late 90s: Heather, James and Laurie. Together, they were most associated with the band Lost Reality until 2000.

On December 27th, 2024, Chris Thomas & The Merrymakers released their original single “FromTheTop 2.0,” a track that delves into the rapid rise and fall of life’s endeavors. This release challenges the status quo with its raw, two-day home recording process, featuring two drum kits and intricate mixing. “FromTheTop 2.0” not only showcases Chris Thomas’ musical prowess but also sets a new standard in the music scene, inviting listeners to experience a high-energy roller coaster ride like never before.

On January 1st, 2025, The Indestructible Water Bear released their debut album, Everything is OK. This release captures the emotional rollercoaster of the past years, blending themes of joy, love, fear, sadness, longing, and separation.

INTERCONTINEN7AL is a groundbreaking band that has redefined the concept of global collaboration in music. Their debut EP, World Over, released on the 22nd of December 2024, marks a historic achievement as it features music instrumentation recorded from all 7 continents, including Antarctica.

Originally a duo of Miss Massive Snowflake leader Shane de Leon (guitar/drums) and visual media artist Jon Lodge (trumpet/electronics), this Billings, MT-based experimental free-jazz/noise group has added bassist Monte Allen, of Portland, OR’s Rollerball.

The EP Three is the third part of Young’s four part album of original songs called Muddy River. The material in “Three” is a departure from the subjects of Parts One (“On A Day Like That”) and Two (“Town Line”). Only three songs long, it consists of a letter to an old friend, a lament by a child of the Sixties and, lastly, a rant.

Nyki Lindsay King’s latest single, “Running out of Time,” delves into the harsh realities of a corrupted world, urging listeners to take action before it’s too late. Recorded in Montreal with engineer Bobby John, Nyki directed all aspects of the production, infusing real-world events into his music to create a powerful message. With thought-provoking lyrics and a compelling sound, “Running Out of Time” promises to be a poignant reflection on society’s current state.

In only a year Tal Rasha was able to tour and gain the audience’s trust in many different areas of France and Switzerland. Knowing something was happening, they quickly decided to record and mix on tape their first 5 track EP in legendary Studio Black Box France and releasing it on vinyl. Their Paris release show got sold out and they even draw the attention of major international bands such as Dewolff who offered them to open for their french/swiss tour in Feb 2025.

Leaning on a rock-a-billy/alt country influence, “Don’t Let Me Notice” showcases the diverse nature of the band and is expected to be among their most successful efforts thus far. Recorded at Forth Worth Sound and produced by The Flying Beets and Bart Rose.

The final phase of Elemental’s 2024 schedule includes the first entry in the Motown Sound series by Gladys Knight & the Pips, the debut album by producer Norman Whitfield’s protégés The Undisputed Truth, and a pivotal album for The Temptations.

Fake Plastic is a band that, like no other, combines old-school rock aesthetics and stadium choruses with indie credibility, experimentation, and garage punk grit. Their songs are written and performed straight from the heart, and their cutting-edge poetic stuff reflects the contemporary condition.

Those who know Lawrence, KS-based Grauerholz as the manager, bibliographer, editor, literary executor and companion of famed writer/artist William S. Burroughs may not be aware that he’s also an adept musician and songwriter. This surprisingly consistent 21-song collection spanning 30 years is a welcome introduction.