Back by popular demand, we present the fan-favorite Obsession Mixtapes curated by our own Josh Pineda. Last year we introduced you to many great artists through this segment, so why not continue the tradition. We're back with an amazing collection of songs that you'll soon be calling your favorite, and you can brag about hearing them first when they become the next giant hits. Coming your way are a mix of great indie/alternative tunes from Filligar, Thanks, Slaughter Beach, St. South, Strangeheart, and Marsicans! Take a listen and become obsessed with us.
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Next is a song by our latest Alt Rising Act, the young and talented group by the name of THANKS. I described their latest release Isolated Bloom as having a “rhythmic texture… [that] is wonderfully diverse and interwoven into the unique vibe of the group's aesthetic nature of fusing jazz elements into experimental alternative rock.” Eight is a prime example of this, as it is the most jazz-infused track on the record, with its shifting time signature grooves and those “musingly arpeggiated” lines coming into effect with the monumental and playfully explorative guitar breakdown. Another reason why I’m obsessed with THANKS.
Slaughter Beach is another example of why Scandinavian bands rule. With only a three song discography, the Denmark trio is well received in the indie community, with mentions from NME and The Line of Best Fit. Their most recent track entitled Nuked is indicative of their power and praise. It has a melancholic Twin Peaks type vibe, which serves as a perfect addition to your preparation for the upcoming Showtime revival. With a subdued Passion Pit quality, you can just envision a choral mist surrounding you while you let your euphoric emotions take course.
My theory that adding Saint to your artist title will make your music all the more glorious holds true with the solo work of Olivia Gavranich. Going by St. South, the Australian artist makes enticing electronic soul and easy chill-wave music. Her latest release Cadence is another amazing display of her talent with a subtle ambient background to go along with an intriguing sax lullaby, which parallels her voice perfectly as they’re both soothing, charming, and mystifying. The title is fitting as she has a uniquely defined turn of phrase and rhythm that’s just infectious. In new music news, St. South will be featured on a TEEF Records compilation album with a new song Better Still on Monday, June 1st. We’ll keep you updated!
One of our favoriteAlt Rising Acts released a new track yesterday and we cannot get enough of it. Los Angeles based Strangeheart has really brought it with Doghouse. Putting themselves in melodic conversation with great SoCal powerhouses, this song has elements reminiscent of classic guitar work of the Eagles, edgy lyrical development and construction similar to that of Rooney and Phantom Planet, but with a unique imaginative vibe that only they can bring with their Pet Shop Boys and Future Islands influence. It’s an incredible display and I can’t wait to hear more from them. Mark my words, they’re the next great group to come out of LA.
To end this edition of the mix, we go to the “upbeat indie meets dirty pop” Englishman that make up Marsicans. Frequently compared to Catfish and the Bottlemen and Vampire Weekend, this group is another well appreciated member of the indie scene. Gone In A Second was released as a Record Store Day 7” single this year, and for good reason. With a retro anthemic drive and an irresistible guitar line reminding me a bit of Hunter Hunted, you can really feel the Beach Boys feel-good coastal influence mixed with that effervescent essence inspired by Bombay Bicycle Club. The track’s energy builds to the final beat, and upon listening you end up feeling so boisterous.