Xenu & The Thetans "Xenu & The Thetans (Slovenly)"
Like our buds at Slovenly Records say about this new self-titled record from Mexico City’s Xenu & The Thetans “it’s not rock-it scientology here, gang. This is that primal punk rock madness that pours outta yer pores when you just wanna belt out some Germs / Bad Brains style ‘core and get nasty.” Couldn’t have said it better myself! That’s why I didn’t even bother trying. Come on! Like they said! Get nasty and check out “Amigos Muertos.”
Hibou "Halve (Barsuk)"
Peter Michel is back as Hibou, and Halve (Barsuk) is another dose of electronic-tinged dream pop. A little new wave, a little ‘90s indie, a touch of punk, and a dash of salt and you have some delicious cookies! No… wait… that’s not right. Music! You have delicious music (salt optional!). Spindly guitars ring, bass drives the chords forward, as Peter oscillates between whisper-delivered vocals and something definitely more throaty and present. Check out the nostalgia-fueled “Inside Illumination.”
Karyn Kuhl "Hey Kid EP"
If you are looking for some ripping guitar, and a modern take on classic-ish sounding rock, then get ready for Hoboken’s finest! The legendary Karyn Kuhl is back with another collection of hot riffs and cool tracks on Hey Kid, her latest EP. From the Petty-esque title track to the zeitgeist-y, anthemic “It’s Over,” to the positively groovy “The Wheels” to the working woman’s blues of “Strong Woman Blues” this collection of 4 jams has something for everyone! Unless you’re looking for directions on how to build a shelf-sorry. No shelf tips on here. Only rock. Give the aforementioned “The Wheels” a spin!
Joanna Sternberg "Then I Try Some More (Team Love)"
Then I Try Some More (Team Love) from NYC musician/artist Joanna Sternberg is an album that’s easy to love, and hard to describe. Joanna started out as a young’un playing piano, then moved on to double bass during high school college. But that’s not all they were up to. Joanna also spent much time working on their visual art. Maybe that’s why the tunes here are so colorful? Most songs feature Joanna’s distinct vocal delivery accompanied by a sparse arrangement. The songs are somehow a mixture of folk music, classical, children’s music, ‘60s pop, ‘30s pop, and tons of other influences. The result is absolutely enchanting, with a McCartney-esque ability to simplify lots of different genres down to their basics while always sounding like themselves. Check out standout track “Step Away.”