Smokey - Bleak Heritage
I once described Smokey as sounding like a “railroad worker on a mushroom trip,” and reductive though that may be, there’s something about the combination of his choice of subject matter—coyotes, religion, unemployment, death—that paints a decidedly midwestern gothic picture. And yet it’s tinged with an almost spiritual quality, something ethereal that lingers, prodding you to remind you that not everything is as simple as it seems.
King of Foxes - Hall of Shame
As soon as the album kicks off, the titular track which lyrically jumps into the contradictions and spirals of self-consciousness as the track switches from a soft guitar instrumental to a full pop punk arrangement getting things really going. The intensity of this track shows off what King of Foxes is about in this album with its midwestern pop punk sensibilities and expressive intensity.
Tebby & The Heavy - Heavy Afternoon
The toughest part about starting this review is the syntax. Is it Tebby & The Heavy? Tebby And The Heavy? Depending what website you’re looking at, or what artwork, both options can be found. One of life’s mysteries, I suppose. I have a fondness for a nice “&” so I will stick with that. Regardless of what you call them, the Edmonton three-piece’s debut full-length Heavy Afternoon, needs no such deliberation - the album just straight up rips.
Overdrive II Oblivion - Red Shift Tape Vol. 1
The first 24 seconds of side one of Red Shift Tape Vol. 1, the first tape from Overdrive II Oblivion, leaves an impression. For those 24 seconds, there is nothing but bass. At 0:01, the track begins abruptly with a bassline that is filthy dirty. It feels like the track starts in the middle of an idea. It’s heavy. Like, HEAVY. Heavy and rough. Jagged and uneven. Imperfect. It’s relentless and tone-setting. It’s 24 seconds and it feels like forever. Every second of it is rustic and beautiful.
First Night of Summer & Peace Museum Vol. 1
I’d like to say, “welcome back, Chad”, but the reality is that he never left. He’s been making incredible music all this time. A gentle giant somehow hiding in plain sight.
Fulfilment - Husky House
Husky House is math rock all grown up. It’s more thoughtful than angry. It’s wise and solemn. It should be hung on walls and played in bars. It’s my favorite part of the Stebner musical universe to date.
SENTRIES - Gem of the West
With this record, SENTRIES steps out of the bedroom and onto the stage—but it doesn’t feel like a departure. Instead, it feels like a natural expansion: same ghost, louder haunt.