Saint Asonia – “Better Place”
This hard-hitting lead single is the return to music for Adam Gontier, his first release since parting ways with Canadian rockers Three Days Grace. The chugging rhythm section throughout and blazing guitar solo for a bridge are both complement of an all-star lineup. Needless to say, musically Saint Asonia’s recorded debut is perfect for rock radio. It’s also neat to hear Gontier’s raspy vocal chords back in action. “Better Place” leaves listeners eagerly anticipating the quasi-supergroup’s forthcoming full-length.
[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TjkGIcFnm5A[/youtube]

Snoop Dogg – “Peaches N Cream” (featuring Charlie Wilson)
The lead single from Snoop Dogg’s latest full-length transports listeners all the way back into the 1970s. Consequently, it’s no surprise that the funk just doesn’t show any signs of stopping on “Peaches N Cream.” Whether it’s coming from the groovy bassline or the smooth R&B croons provided by guest vocalist Charlie Wilson, Snoop’s newest is a refreshing hip-hop tune with an unabashed retro vibe.
[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1UAIxwYEgm0[/youtube]

Royale – “This Is My Life”
Not to be confused with our favorite Chicago yacht metallers of the same name, these Houston natives go blisteringly heavy on their newest track. From the groovy low-end to the gutturals of vocalist David Boen, this song appears to possess the ingredients needed for an onslaught of awesome, if you will. Its main flaw, however, lies in the formulaic sung choruses, which take away from the song’s overall staying power. If stripped away, “This Is My Life” would be phenomenal. Instead, it’s just a bit above average.
[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3PXrek22Rs[/youtube]

Breaking Benjamin – “Defeated”
After years of turmoil and legal trouble, modern rock giants Breaking Benjamin are back with new personnel and a new full-length album to go along with it. Although the band has released a few singles from the forthcoming Dark Before Dawn already, the third and most recent one is the strongest yet. “Defeated” is a head-banging track oozing with melody thanks mainly to the stellar guitarwork. The song is bound to be a contender on the airwaves when its time comes. Here’s to hoping that the radio makes the right decision.
[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7O-FGSkUJk[/youtube]

The Apprehended – “Can We Just Speak”
The latest single from South Carolina post hardcore act The Apprehended is as intense as it is catchy. Tight guitarwork makes way for melodic choruses, and while the singing doesn’t seem to fit with the instrumentation at certain times, it’s nothing to sneeze at, and at other times it works fine. “Can We Just Speak” is far from top-tier heavy music, but it isn’t half bad either, especially considering the current state of the post hardcore genre in the first place.
[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8yP4d3esho[/youtube]

Tame Impala – “Let It Happen”
Australian psychedelic rockers Tame Impala are back with their third full-length effort Currents, slated for release on July 17th, and the album’s lengthy opener is trippy as ever. The airy keys and dancy drum pattern are enough to put those listening into a trance. There’s also a clear ‘70s influence to “Let It Happen,” but rather than feeding off that influence completely, Kevin Parker and company decide to put their own modern spin on things, resulting in a fantastic middle ground. It’s a perfect song for live shows, as evidenced by the band’s recent performance at The LC Pavilion.
[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ed6UeDp1ek[/youtube]