This edition of LITM Rock Picks brings riveting releases from artists Matt C. White, RAAR Trio, Johnny Barr, Arn-Identified Flying Objects and Alien Friends, and Girona City Boy.
Matt C. White - The Way Down
“The Way Down” by Brooklyn-based rocker, Matt C. White, is exhilarating. The artist brings out the weight and darkness of falling to the bottom, but also keeps beauty and brightness at the end of it. The music offers a fuzzy, psychedelia-tinged, southern-rock atmosphere, melding together rich, rousing textures in a dynamic design. A bright burst of tight, groovy drums and swirling, distortion-soaked riffs open the song. Slowly fading into a sparse passage, the music spotlights sweltering, smooth solos. White’s radiant vocals emerge, punching raw, debonair melodies while airy percussion and earthy bass notes dot the spacious backdrop. Before you know it, an explosion of fuzzy riffs, pounding drums, and spiralling vocal chops light up the soundscape in prismatic colors and infectious passion—like a mind-opening trip. Oscillating between states of brooding swagger and fiery energy, the song leaves you on a hypnotic high. Listen here!
RAAR Trio - Voodoo Chile
RAAR Trio’s rendition of the Jimi Hendrix classic “Voodoo Chile” is exquisite and electrifying–a no easy feat. Hendrix’s spirit is palpable in the stunning guitar work of Ari Joshua, who embellishes the sound with simmering, bubbling licks infused with delectable distortion. The drums carve sharp, energetic grooves into the music, Russell Lawton masterfully lending an infectious pace. Prismatic keys add richness to the music, Ray Paczkowski’s captivating execution decorates the soundscape with lush textures and colorful tones. The sonic atmosphere pulses and erupts with addictive energy, a raw charm and uninhibited flow underlining the experience. RAAR Trio’s instrumental brilliance shines through, and their compelling intuition elevates this cover, making it hard to forget. Listen here!
Johnny Barr - Break the Fall
Paisley based singer-songwriter teams up with Calum Ingram to deliver a charged performance in “Break the Fall.” Lyrically powerful, the song delves into the grit of surmounting self-doubt, internal struggles, and existential angst. The soundscape is packed with emotion and energy, each melody and beat is roiling with the weight of personal growth. Guitars reverberate energetically alongside bluesy cello brightness, mirroring the enduring human spirit. Thumping drums steadily drive the sound forward. The raspy, rousing vocal melodies exude the intensity and sincerity of living through the trials and earning the triumphs. Building from softer, vulnerable opening moments into spirited, charged sections, the song offers both contemplation and catharsis. “Break the Fall” is anthemic and bold. Listen here!
Arn-Identified Flying Objects and Alien Friends - Sing-Along Songs
Solo project Arn-Identified Flying Objects and Alien Friends crafts an upbeat, radiant soundscape in “Sing-Along Songs.” Finding freedom and frustration in the balancing act of creating what is personal and profound and what may be preferred and palatable, the song delves into the dilemma most creatives face through easy yet evocative lyrics. The soundscape encapsulates the theme, offering a chirpy, sing-along song with subtle yet strong messaging. Bright guitars light up the music, while speeding, airy drums race alongside. The warm, mellifluous vocal melodies punctuate the music with ear-worm hooks that get you singing along in no time. “Sing-Along Songs” is thoroughly enjoyable and thought-provoking. Listen here!
Girona City Boy - Manchester
“Manchester” by Girona City Boy is a fiery, passionate love letter to a city, admiring it for all its grime, grit, and greatness. The simple, sincere lyrics paired with a high-octane soundscape makes for an exhilarating and adventurous listen. Opening with an explosive start, the instrumentation races off with distortion-heavy, electrifying riffs speeding to pounding, fast-paced drumming. The singer puts on an impassioned and heartfelt performance, the vocals punchy and power-packed. The catchy cadence adds an addictive edge to the music, making you want to keep moving at the song’s thrilling momentum. The love and deep connection to the city is palpable, its intensity injected into your veins through the rousing vocals and soaring soundscape. “Manchester” is an exciting listen. Check it out here!
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