In this edition of LITM Rock Picks, we curate a vibrant bouquet of rock sounds featuring electrifying riffs, blazing solos, infectious hooks, emotional vocals and lively rhythms from artists Courtney Nord, Jack Simpson, Gentry Blue, Imperial April and Santa Claws.
Courtney Nord - Smells like teen spirit
Reimagining a timeless Nirvana classic, Courtney gracefully navigates the shifty terrain of recreating nostalgic hits in her latest song “Smells like teen spirit”. We get not one, but two renditions of the song; a rock and a symphonic version. The rock version skilfully retains the original spirit, yet sees the personal touches from Nord in the harmonious and delicate vocals, that oscillate between mellow and powerful. The chorus is especially remarkable for its balancing act, as it fuses pounding drums and electrifying riffs with the silken, layered vocals. The symphonic version is pure indulgence, in that, there’s a grandeur to the sound which does not rip away from the original, but only enhances the experience of listening to Nord’s reimagination. Ominous melodies, enigmatic vocal harmonies, and swelling string sections add a dark dimension to the song, pulling you in with its inescapable gravity. Lose yourself in Nord’s emphatic renditions today!
Jack Simpson - Trees
“Trees” by Jack Simpson has a rock charm that strikes you at the very outset, and even better, it conveys an environmentally-charged message. The song starts with a bang; an infectious looping guitar hook, driving drums, and suave, gritty vocals. The lyrics call out people’s attitude of apathy towards nature, leading to a culture of indifference and exploitation. Using folk, rock, and pop elements, Simpson crafts a sound that is commanding yet melodic. Albeit the heaviness of the theme, the song also hopes for change and inspires the listener to pay more attention to the natural world around, from the lens of appreciation and gratitude. “Trees” is not just a musical delight, but also a necessary poetic intervention to bring us closer to nature.
Gentry Blue - Collide
“Collide” is a vivid sonic explosion from Gentry Blue, a psychedelic prog-rock band based in Nashville. The song is inspired by the inevitable cosmic collision of the Milky Way Galaxy and the Andromeda Galaxy, four and a half billion years from now, and it explores our emotional response to the knowledge of such an event taking place. Gentry Blue lights up your sonic sky with blazing riffs, emphatic vocals, and a raging rhythm. The song opens on a contemplative note which is enhanced by the formidable yet sensitive quality of the lead singer’s voice. As the song progresses, you find yourself swept away into a riotous current of guitar solos, soaring vocals, and fast-paced drums. I must say, the Gentry Blue has masterfully replicated the intensity and vibrancy of such a colossal celestial catastrophe in the indulgent soundscape of “Collide.”
Imperial April - Peachy
“Peachy” by Imperial April is a wake-up call to not waste life’s precious moments and seek out experiences that enrich your life, even during the not-so-easy times. There is an air of punk, rock, and power-pop influences swirling throughout the soundscape. Warm riffs and a lively rhythm tastefully complement the singer’s joyful yet vulnerable vocals. Imperial April showcases energetic yet deeply reflective songwriting in this song, a blend that very few attempt to create. The lyrics draw the listener into a place of introspection while also cheering up your spirit with bright and optimistic melodies. If you’re having a gloomy day, and life does not seem so worthwhile, this song might be just the right antidote!
Santa Claws - She Turns
Santa Claws delivers “She Turns” with passion and honesty, illuminating the song with their heartfelt vocal performance and lush instrumentation. Welcomed by flourishing guitar riffs, melodic acoustic notes, and lively percussion, the listener is transported to a place of love and warmth. The singer's baritone voice has an emphatic and mature quality to it, delivering the lyrics with emotional authenticity. The vocals glide effortlessly over the rest of the sonic elements, coherently and geometrically, without overriding one another, creating a resonant listening experience.
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