Citizens – “So Kind and Its Freaking Me Out”

This is a new side to the alt-worship outfit for sure. I’m getting some later-era Coldplay vibes, which for some might be considered an insult. But to me this is a compliment. The song does feel too short, but this might be one of the best hooks Citizens has ever penned.

Hello Luna – “Deathly Lullaby”

Hello Luna are fully embracing the dark pop direction. “Deathly Lullaby” is perhaps the most infectious song the Columbus outfit has ever released. This is the first of many singles to be released this year. Listening to this, I get a sense that something has been building with this act for quite some time, and they finally feel ready for the masses. Watch out! Hello Luna is coming for you…

Sower – “Born Again”

All too often, Christian music is either rich with emotion or theology. Sower has both, and adds an autobiographical element through the story of frontman Eric Tuffensdam’s testimony. “You called my name with irresistible grace / and I could not stay dead” references a key element of reformed thought, while literally describing his own experience. The entirety of the song is bathed in a cinematic style of production that creates a perception of perpetual expansion. To me, this points to the mystery of the love of God.

Zaq Baker – “bri”

“bri” is an unassuming, sweet synthpop track that feels like it was written only for one person to hear. I almost feel like I’m intruding on something private listening to this. Something this personal and genuine doesn’t seem like it should be for mass consumption, but the structure of the song indicates otherwise, as it seeks to sweep the listener off their feet.

Bongo Chico – “When You Walked Away”

Sun-drenched indie rock has always been one of my favorite niches to explore. Bongo Chico’s debut single is chock full of that vibe. Too heavy to be surf rock, and too light hearted to be grunge. It’s hard to put an exact label on this niche, but I know it when I hear it, every time. This song is a promising start to the SoCal outfit. Oh, I should probably mention that the main man behind it is Tim Foreman of Switchfoot (a tiny little detail, of little importance really… wink wink.)

Tape Trash – “Since 94”

Few songs are immediately satisfying. Tape Trash excels at a sound I’d label cinematic shoegaze. Some might just call it dream pop. But it demands to be listened to a unhealthy volumes. Also, there has to be something about living in a northerly, colder climate that produces so much consistently awesome atmospheric music – Tape Trash are based in Norway. The press release for this song mentions the band’s navigation of faith and the loss thereof… methinks they would fit in great at Audiofeed Festival.

Tommy Cash – “Espresso Macchiato”

I’m not really sure what’s going on here but I had to feature the song. Outwardly you’ll say it’s stupid, but secretly you’ll love it. That’s it. That’s the review.