We kicked of the new year with a bang, with staff members moving to places all over both sides of the Atlantic. We had a release show with Losing Sleep in London and announced a killer all dayer at the Old Blue Last. Also we listened to a ton of music, here are the staff picks to get your 2016 off in the best way.
Into It. Over It – ‘No EQ’
The moment the drum and bass style drum beat kicks in to this Into It. Over It. track was the moment I fell in love. They add a totally new dimension to the track, and make it sound really fresh and exciting. Also it’s just the most perfect soundtrack to cold winter days. I am forever a fan of Into It. Over It. and think each release progresses and changes. I have high hopes for the new album, it’s going to be up there in so many AOTY lists. [Maryam Hassan]
Turkish Techno – ‘I’m Not Sorry’
Turkish Techno are notorious for taking their time releasing records. But that’s fine, because when this Riverside, California band puts something out, you know it’s going to be great, tight pop punk with don’t-give-a-fuck attitude in the lyrics. On their new full-length, ‘Number Two’ (yes, it’s bathroom humor), among many gems, one song stands out in particular: ‘I’m Not Sorry’. It’s got a great sound, and is a little angrier than typical Turkish Techno songs, as if they really do give a fuck, after all. [Paul Silver]
Basement – ‘Aquasun’
With January celebrating the release of the eagerly anticipated comeback album proper by Ipswich five-piece Basement, the pre-release single and alternative rock masterpiece ‘Aquasun’ is the immediate stand-out from ‘Promise Everything’. Demonstrating the prefect blend between the band’s understated anger and new-found prowess in catchy as hell melodies, ‘Aquasun’ is a brilliant example of what Basement are capable of. [Ben Tipple]
Ignite – ‘Begin Again’
It’s been ten years since Ignite released a record (though we did get Zoli’s wonderful stint as vocalist for Pennywise a few years back), and they’ve picked up right where they left off. This kind of power-metal-tinged skate punk is always going to be pleasing to my ears, but the way this song kicks off, with dual singing/screaming vocals bringing to mind the theatricality of Queen is spectacular. [Jason Swearingen]
Hard Girls – ‘Dulcet Tones’
It’s a bit inaccurate to say that Hard Girls have been quietly putting out classic releases since 2012’s ‘Isn’t It Worse’ because every release has been full of loud, buzzy records that, while punk, are never too sloppy. Think race car engine as opposed to the very loud Honda that drives down your block at 2 AM. ‘Dulcet Tones’, even as a demo, is good enough for me to be my pick. It sounds like a lot of other Hard Girls songs, sure, but it’s not stale and Hard Girls is the only band doing this in a way that’s still captivating enough for me to loop back a demo fifteen times in one day. [Jay Papandreas]
Pinegrove – ‘Old Friends’
2016 will belong to Pinegrove. ‘Cardinal’, their debut album proper (following on from last year’s compilation, ‘Everything So Far’) comes out on 12th February on Run For Cover Records, and earlier this month Pinegrove released opener ‘Old Friends’. This song encapsulates everything that makes Pinegrove so great. From beautiful, intricate, interwoven arrangements to Evan Stephens Hall’s unique and captivating vocals relating lyrics that range from conversational to highly articulate, this song grabs your heart and doesn’t let go. Not only are they about to release an incredible record, they’re also heading out on an amazing, full US tour with Into It. Over It., The World Is A Beautiful Place And I Am No Longer Afraid To Die and The Sidekicks. Sleep on this band at your peril. They’re going to be massive. [Conor Mackie]
Gar Clemens – ‘Cricket Hill’
Songwriter Gar Clemens’ title track ‘Cricket Hill’ has the type of thing you want from a sombre acoustic track: a catchy refrain, a good story, and pure heart. His new album is a continual step from his 2014 release ‘Onion Eyes’ but shows his progression into finding a bit of a rougher edge with his vocals and overall sound. However, he does it well, and it’s definitely a diamond in the rough to find a songwriter like him in the big city. Not to mention, with the current Winter in tow, ‘Cricket Hill’ is the perfect music to warm your soul on a blistery cold day. [Mike Petruccelli]
The I Don’t Cares – ‘Wild Stab’
When I first read the news that Replacements’ front man and icon Paul Westerberg was teaming up with the brilliant singer-songwriter Juliana Hatfield, my eyes bugged out with excitement as I imagined at what this kind of collaboration would bring. Earlier this month, the duo, who call themselves The I Don’t Cares, released their full-length album called ‘Wild Stab’. As a fan of both Westerberg and Hatfield, I can tell you this is exactly what I would have expected from them and more. Wild Stab is 16 tracks of pure rock genius that ranges from straightforward rock, to gangly indie rock to even honky-tonk sounds. Not only that, but the lyrics throughout Wild Stab cover a broad range of emotions from remorse, to heartfelt affection to lightheartedness. If you are a fan of either Westerberg or Hatfield (and who isn’t?) ‘Wild Stab’ is a must own. For those unfamiliar with one of both of them, this record will really make your day. [Jeff Takacs]
Brian Fallon – ‘Nobody Wins’
For those of us who are still mourning The Gaslight Anthem’s hiatus, Brian Fallon’s new single ‘Nobody Wins’ off of his upcoming album ‘Painkillers’ is a nice treat. It’s even more of a plus if you’re a fan of his side project Molly and the Zombies. The single is incredibly catchy and while the lyrics are a bit downtrodden, it does have slightly uplifting instrumentals. In addition to the guitars and drums, there are nice, subtle gang vocals as well. So if those elements are your cup of tea, then ‘Nobody Wins’ is for you, especially on these cold and dreary winter nights. Brian’s new album ‘Painkillers’ comes out March 11th on Island Records. [Daniella Heminghaus]
Bad News – ‘Halloween’
Following on from last years excellent single ‘Wide Awake’, Cheltenham indie-rock band Bad News have shown us a different side on ‘Halloween’. While we are used to hearing uplifting, 90s-tinged anthems that wouldn’t have been out of place on a ‘Shine’ compilation, this track explores a more downbeat, stripped back avenue. Glorious melodies shimmer underneath Tom Playfair’s laid-back vocals, delivered with the utmost sincerity, and showing the diversity that this band is capable of. With their accomplished songwriting, and acclaimed support slots to both Crooks and Hindsights under their belt, we will no doubt be seeing a lot more from Bad News in 2016. [Glen Bushell]
Grieved – ‘Drain’
Grieved are making waves as well as a name for themselves with their own band of darkened hardcore that they refer to as ‘Stockholm Blues’. ‘Drain’ is the third track to be released from the band’s self titled debut album. Relentlessly pounding and thunderous, this track ebbs and flows through several tempo changes, yet doesn’t cease to be aggressive which is further enhanced by the venomous delivery of Markus Lundqvist’s vocals. The new album is available now through Prosthetic Records and they’re currently on a European tour with Employed To Serve. [James Davenport]
Ship Thieves – ‘Born Into This’
No longer content to carry on as a punk influenced, Americana side project, Hot Water Music’s Chris Wollard is dropping his name from the group’s title and they are charging full on as Ship Thieves. While the upcoming ‘No Anchor’ is the third release under this moniker, it is the first to feature a secured lineup that all contributed to the songwriting. ‘Born Into This’ carries and further expands upon so many hook-laden, reflective elements showcased by later Hot Water Music and Draft tunes. It’s a catchy, flannel soaked, heartfelt sing-along that threatens to get stuck in many an ear. Wollard and company have stepped up their game and hit a strong stride with this release and I am really looking forward to seeing what more they bring to the table. [Mat Stokes]
Reigning Days – ‘Renegade’
In the past three years, this Exeter-based trio have managed to hone their talent and skills to create music that sounds like it belongs in arenas. Massive riffs, big choruses, and colossal basslines have all combined to bring us ‘Renegade’, and it only spells the start of good things to come for Reigning Days. [Jess Tagliani]
PUP – ‘DVP’
Like a phoenix rising from the flames – PUP are back in rip roaring fashion with ‘DVP’. Sure to be an instant live classic, their blend of angsty punk rock, tales of the pains of growing up and incredibly catchy singalongs – PUP are back and here to stay. We at Punktastic cannot wait for what we hear from these Toronto folk this year. [Mark Gadong]
Enter Shikari – ‘Redshift’
Ahead of their impending February Arena tour, St Albans finest have released an absolute belter to tide fans over. Cinematic, expansive, epic. Three words which sum up one of the biggest songs Shikari have ever released. With a massive chorus and cascading synths, Shikari have created a radio friendly song which is still edgy enough to be accepted by even the most cynical of fans. ‘Redshift’ was written to be played live and it’s going to sound stupidly good live especially in the huge spaces Shikari will call playgrounds in February. [Adam Rosario]
Press to MECO – ‘Diffusion of Responsibility’
If riffs and harmonies were worth their weight in gold Press to MECO would probably be the wealthiest band in the country. I mean riffs and harmonies are the basis of what you need to make money right? Why would you want to purchase a song that does not have either of these things? Diffusion of responsibility keeps pushing Press To MECO further ahead of the field in whichever genre they are being labelled as this week. It also has a rather nice collection of dog’s in the music video, what more could you want? Cat’s? Nah… they can get in the bin. [Lee Male]
Everyone Leaves – ‘Seasonal Affective’
I was introduced to Everyone Leaves by our very own Maryam Hassan. The Ohio band ply an emotionally-charged brand of indie-infused punk rock, taking cues from Long Island emo staples while carving out their own identity. New single ‘Seasonal Affective’ addresses Winter depression and isolation over captivating, shimmering guitars and is sure to warm your heart until Spring’s thaw. [Rob Barbour]
Grumble Bee – ‘H.C.A.D.C.’
When you’re getting ready to release your first EP it’s always going to be an anxious time and when you’ve written and performed every instrument yourself there’s really nowhere to hide. When you’re as good as Jack Bennett though, the multi-instrumentalist mastermind behind Grumble Bee, there’s very little to worry about. ‘H.C.A.D.C.’ is a first glimpse into his upcoming debut EP ‘Disconnect’ and based on the soaring melodies, pristine vocals and intricate guitar work shown here, the future is looking very bright indeed. ‘Disconnect’ is out on February 29th and you won’t want to miss it. [Mark Johnson]
The Black Queen – ‘The End Where We Start’
The new side project from Greg Puciato of The Dillinger Escape Plan fame coming out with something totally unexpected. I was expecting something fairly art-rocky with maybe Greg still doing a bit of screaming over the top – what he’s made instead is an album that sounds like a mix of the best of Depeche Mode, Nine Inch Nails and even some of the more ambient-based bits of Katatonia. Greg’s vocals are beyond on-point on this record, bringing his incredible vocal styles to choruses that are bigger than anything else already released this year. [Andy Leddington]
Fatherson – ‘Lost Little Boys’
Okay so I know I chose a Fatherson song for our last ‘Best Of…’ month playlist but when the songs are this good can you really blame me? After announcing their new album ‘Open Book’ will be released in June (which is far too long a wait) the Scottish trio went and dropped this absolute banger. Opening with a euphoric drum beat and sizzling guitar riffs you’re automatically drawn in with your ears perked up high. Frontman Ross Leighton’s vocals are as flawless and powerful as ever and shine in the almighty chorus, which has added ‘woah oh’s’ if you were wondering. If this is just the beginning of what’s to offer with the album, we are all in for one hell of a treat. Is it too early to predict an album of the year? [Tamsyn Wilce]