In this edition of LITM Rock Picks, we bring the best of RAAR Trio, Ross King, and more!
Ari Joshua’s RAAR Trio - “Star Light Mountain”
Ari Joshua, Russ Lawton, and Ray Paczkowski, who first connected during the Vermont winter amid the pandemic post-Beacon Jams; and under the banner of RAAR Trio, they bring us their latest single, “Star Light Mountain”— a delightful slow rock ballad with influences from sci-fi rock, some blues and jazz as well. The phased synths in the background lend a dimensionality to the song that is excellently well supported by the war, organic sound of the pianos, while the vocals take us on a soulful journey. The percussion holds things together quite well, and the vocal harmonies that the trio employ are the icing on the cake as they present an enjoyable, well-executed listen. Take a listen to the song here!
Ross King - “Never Know”
Taking inspiration from avant-garde musicians like Jacob Collier and Thundercat, Ross King brings a unique take to pop music that is hard to characterise under a conventional banner. On his latest single, “Never Know”, he brings the charm of muted guitar chords, the energy of afrobeats, and an uptempo, cheerful sound; while skilfully experimenting with the melodic writing throughout the song. There is also much to appreciate about the drumming, which is tight and precise; making use of the whole kit efficiently to being forth a sound that is engaging, and demands repeat listens. The embellishments with the guitars and the piano keys are also charming, and overall, it’s really well done. Check the track out here!
The Bondurants - “Southside Looking Down”
A six piece alternative country outfit from Leeds in the United Kingdom, The Bondurants shine when it comes to delivering heartfelt tunes with a certain express cadence of country rock music; and on their latest single, “Southside Looking Down”, they bring the warmth of their electric guitars, and their soulful vocals to create a banger package that takes the listener on a gentle journey through the melodies and motifs; the energy in the song gently shifts up and down in tandem with the instruments; and the vocal harmonies are delightfully 90s, with their wide, layered production. Couple this with a warm, inviting mix that captures the natural breath of the instruments, and you have yourself an engaging, enjoyable listen. Check it out here!
The Fades - “Looking for Keanu”
The Fades, a post-punk garage rock quartet from South West London, fuse humor, raw energy, and introspective themes into a dynamic mix of post-punk indie and garage rock; often described very favourably by music outlets, their latest single, “Looking For Keanu” is a culmination of their raw punk energy, and represents their brand of music rather accurately; from the downtempo, seemingly simplistic classic rock production, the stage is set for the vocals and the ringing electric guitars in the background; the drumming shines through with its chops and embodies the full-bodied nature of harder edged punk music. Couple this with electric guitar solos throughout the song that are accompanied by the vocal harmonies and the synths, and you have a powerful listen. Check it out here!
Alutepena Hughes-John - “I Told You So”
Alutepena Hughes-John has balanced her solo work with numerous collaborative projects, continually exploring new musical styles since the age of 8; and her aim is to offer something different, and distinctive to herself in the music industry. On her latest single, “I Told You So”, she brings the best of her sound — a blend of blues, country and smooth pop music, and couples it with her angelic, melodious voice; while the basses and the strings form gentle company in the background. The focus is very much on Alutepena’s vocals here, make no mistake; and it pays off, with a smooth, gentle listen that stays with you long after the track has ended. Take a listen to the track here!
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