This edition of LITM Rock Picks brings gripping soundscapes and affecting themes from artists Shyfrin Alliance, The Party After, Raising Ravens, Andy Osman, and John Kolar.
Shyfrin Alliance - Buddha Blues
Shyfrin Alliance was founded by Eduard Shyfrin, a scientist, award-winning author, and businessman. The latest release “Buddha Blues” is a simply profound, slow-burning revelation rooted in soulful inquiry. The lyrics capture a contemplation on time, both from a scientific and spiritual lens, revealing its ability to heal and empower. The country-blues-esque atmosphere colored with gospel-like vocal elements and ear-catching guitar riffs palpably surrounds you. The soundscape finds grounding in the steady grooves and raspy baritone vocals, both adding depth and dynamism to the music. The rich instrumentation also features luminous piano and smooth Hammond organ, elevating the song’s appeal. Shyfrin’s mature, deep vocals exude wisdom and weariness. It's a one-of-a-kind musical journey that invites you to feel deeply and think harder. “Buddha Blues” isn’t just heard; it’s savoured, with lasting resonance. Listen here!
The Party After - Happy Hour
The Party After is an alternative rock group from Omaha, Nebraska. “Happy Hour” is a power-packed release charged with emotion and sonic intensity. The alt-hard-rock soundscape pounds heavily, both against the heart and the mind. The song delves into themes of struggle, stagnation, and holding on to the past, bringing out the bittersweet feeling of living in the comfort zone, and not venturing out towards growth when fears hold you back. The emotional weight of this universal battle is mirrored in the soundscape—gravelly riffs and thunderous drums send powerful shockwaves throughout the music, the heavy distortion soaks the music in electrifying reverberations, and the singer’s emphatic vocal melodies punch impassioned melodies into the music—leaving you deeply moved. “Happy Hour” offers a compelling sound and a musical companion to get through tough days. Listen here!
Raising Ravens - The Storm
Raising Ravens are an Australian all-female, hard-rock trio crafting unforgettable, stirring soundscapes. The latest release, “The Storm” hits hard and hits home. A reflection on life’s impermanence and embracing each moment, the soundscape transforms the fleeting momentum of life into a power-packed, anthemic, riotous catharsis. Searing, heavy riffs and unrelenting, pounding drums propel the sound with a steadfast rhythm. The singer’s vocals slashes through the music with clarity, each melody commanding your attention. The soundscape blends raw, explosive energy with introspective depth and grit, not losing itself in the contemplation, rather finding itself in the revelations. Tinged with rage, grunge, and nostalgic flavours, the music grips your senses. “The Storm” is a hit. Listen here!
Andy Osman - Jackie Dee - Jonny Moody Remix
"Jackie Dee – Jonny Moody Remix" is a striking soundscape, crafted by Andy Osman and reimagined with flair by Jonny Moody. Moody riffs open the song, their curving distortion injects the atmosphere with strong emotions. A steady, slow-building drum rhythm drives the sound, allowing the warm guitars to shine through. The singer’s emotive and sincere vocal melodies paint a vivid image, absorbing you into the story. Searing guitar lines are etched into the music, its impassioned heat radiating across the soundscape. The melancholy, dejection, and disappointment in the lyrics is brilliantly animated by the singer’s expressive vocal performance, the darkness of these emotions wrapped in the bright, fiery delivery of passion, making the feelings more palatable. The production is tightly knit, allowing each element to have its moment, without shadowing the other. This track lingers in the heart. Listen here!
John Kolar - Tie My Shoes
“Tie My Shoes” opens like dawn—warm, soft chords slowly fill up the sonic sky and a breezy, mellow drum beat caresses the soundscape. The tenderness is delicious and yearns to be savoured, the emotional precision delicately striking at your heart. Kolar’s vocals, raw and intimate, surf the waves emotion smoothly. The soft, lingering pull of the melodies tugs at forgotten memories, bringing them up to the surface of your mind. Kolar’s performance is steeped in intent and instinct, creating an atmosphere that cradles contemplation and catharsis equally. The evocative soundscape is more than just a journey through love and longing, it is a manifestation of silent sadness and moving moodiness that distance creates. John Kolar’s ability to create this mellow indie rock atmosphere, with subtlety and detail, is sublime. Listen here!
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