The Middle Names – “My Brother and I”

Ever heard a band from Tasmania? Didn’t think so. Let’s break that trend with this song. Just in time for summer (kind of ironic given that this band’s homeland is on the cusp of winter right now) add this track to your playlists. The guitar hook is the biggest strength, with some throwback vocals to add to the mix.

[youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4o8cvtMe01M&h=297&w=450]

TATI ANA – “MRI”

This artist has been compared to Phantogram. I can kind of see it. Going by “MRI” though, this artist is bit more grating to the ears at first impression. “MRI” is a nice kind of grating though – paradoxical as it may seem. Organized static-y percussion mixed with low, sensual vocals add an element of mystery and allure hard to ignore. The noise rock influence is definitely present as well.

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Teleman – “I’m Not in Control”

It’s been awhile since I’ve heard some good shoegaze so I’m glad I found Teleman. The repititious “I’m Not in Control” line sung ad nauseum is appropriate – it sounds robotic. The logical conclusion of anything robotic is that the human counterpart isn’t in control. The steady beat of the song is the only thing consistent. The structure isn’t tradition by any means, but things build to a nice climax in the bridge. It sounds like there’s some vocoder thrown in too. If you dont know what a vocoder is, listen to the first few seconds of “Hide and Seek” by Imogen Heap (perhaps the best known use of this element).

[youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7cBvrhTaMoA&H=297&w=450]

Twin Peaks – “Flavor”

This short but sweet track came my way shortly after my discovery of the band via the announcement of one of many summer festivals in my area, “4th on 4th.” Not to be confused with Twin Forks or Twin Radio, this psychedelic surf rock band is more reserved on the reverb and more heavy on the melodies. “Flavor” is tasty enough to whet our appetites, but not much more. Fans of Temples will like these guys. The single comes from their forthcoming record, titled Wild Onion which will be out on Grand Jury Records.

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