Dent, the latest effort from Cleveland’s Signals Midwest, feels, to me, like an urgent, hand-to-heart ode to easier days, and as a tribute to midwest emo and punk. The first LP by them in a surprising six years, Dent is earnest, full of heart and fire and catchy tunes. This is maybe best exemplified by this post’s Most Important: “Gold in The Grey” but there are plenty of tracks to choose from, should you want to take a little listen back to a simpler, more energetic time. (And, yes, I may be projecting a bit here, deal with it.)
Squid - Paddling
Squid’s debut album isn’t out yet, and “highly anticipated” might be an understatement. Over the last several months they’ve released a series of singles that…are… awesome. The most recent, “Paddling”, should give you an idea of what they’re all about. You like it? You’ll like it.
Emperor X - Sad React
Emperor X is all over the place. /SMH
“Sad React” is the latest from witty and enigmatic singer Chad Matheny and it’s a terrific example of what he does best; blending clever lyrics with extremely catchy, minimal yet complicated pop vibes. The subject this time is social media and the trials and tribulations of our reactions to it. It also has a giant fuck you ending, so be warned. Give it a listen, and if you’re hooked, as I was when I first discovered him, give some of his older stuff a listen. I particularly love “Allahu Akbar” (no it’s not a trap), “Erica Western Teleport” and the low-key epic “€30,000”.