An even mix of local and international talents for this mixtape. Lets start with the locals and our feature, the delightful Seja and her new track ‘C’mon’, followed by Sydney lads Driffs with their take on surf pop, before we head abroad again for Little Green Cars, The BellRays, Man Like Me as well as TOKiMONSTA featuring MNDR, and coming back to Australia again for new tracks from Catch Release and Monks Of Mellonwah.
Seja – C’mon
Heavily driven by synth yet not heavy at all, this dreamy pop number finds itself between 60s and 70s influences. Seja’s vocals are sweet but sound slightly eerie throughout. This is the sort of track that could have a spellbinding effect if you let it, which makes Seja’s upcoming album All Our Wires an intriguing prospect.
Driffs – Mary
Sydney surf pop outfit Driffs have dropped a new single, recorded in their guitarist’s bedroom. Inspired by the summer, ‘Mary’ has more of a garage and lo-fi sound compared to previous recordings. The new direction works for the band on this particular track, it’s short and sweet with a great guitar hook that’s pleasing to the ear from start to finish. A band to keep an ear on for sure.
Little Green Cars – Harper Lee
The Dublin five-piece, Little Green Cars have a beautiful song in ‘Harper Lee’. The song’s title is a reference to the famous writer, best known for To Kill A Mockingbird. The Irish group have a sound that is earthy and full, in a way that is similar to Mumford & Sons. The vocals of Stevie Appleby and Faye O’Rourke are layered over carefully strummed guitars, and the lyrics are a little haunting but in the best possible way.
The BellRays – On Top
Hailing from California, The BellRays bring you their latest punk, rock and soul single ‘On Top’ via one hell of a voice that knocks you right off your feet as soon as she opens her mouth. That woman throwing the punches with as equally ballsy lyrics is Lisa Kekaula. Backed by some hard-hitting musicians, ‘On Top’ is hard, fast and in your face, leaving you gagging to see them live. Catch The BellRays when they return to Australia this June.
TOKiMONSTA – Go With It (Feat MNDR)
Opening with intoxicating percussion, ‘Go With It’ builds with synth textures and MNDR’s own angst driven voice. From the sound producer’s upcoming album Half Shadows, TOKiMONSTA provides one of her more uplifting moments here. This pop track is blissful yet cleverly crafted with a soothing ambience. Half Shadows is set to land in early April.
Catch Release – Motion Sickness
Melbourne five-piece Catch Release have a sound that differs from all other local bands in some form of indie soul; chilled out funk with classical elements thanks to a french horn and violin. ‘Motion Sickness’ is the lead single from the band’s new EP Sleep Is A Friend Of Mine, consisting of worldly and laid back vocals, gentle guitar, percussion, horns and violin, making their sound interesting and intriguing. Catch Release play their debut show at Melbourne’s Wesley Anne on March 27th.
Man Like Me – Sleaze
Camden duo Man Like Me have created a sickeningly sweet pop song oozing with so much 80s you can basically feel your shirt sprouting shoulder pads and your snug-fitting jeans transforming into parachute pants. As such, “Sleaze” is a perfectly fitting name for this track. Don’t let the tarnished reputation of the decade put you off though; this almost sounds like the UK’s answer to our own World’s End Press. Get lost in the vintage synths and clapping effects then submit yourself completely to the glorious saxophone solo at the end. You’d best take off your leg warmers for this one.
Monks Of Mellonwah – Sky And The Dark Night Part 2
Sydney based alternative rockers Monks Of Mellonwah have been working their butts over the last year and making waves on an international level winning ‘Best International Rock Artist’ at the L.A. music awards in 2012. “Sky and the Dark Night Part 2″, the band’s latest release, sees them taking a more prog rock direction with an orchestral and almost soundtrack like feel. The track is slow, mellow and controlled, showcasing the band musicianship along with Vikram Kaushik’s distinctive vocals.
