Electric Bird Noise: Nighttime Tides

Nighttime Tides is the new album from Electric Bird Noise, on innovative indie label Silber Records. Consisting of a single piece of music spanning nearly 33 minutes, Nighttime Tides is an ambient soundscape meant to evoke visions of the ocean. With flowing guitar drones, diverse textures and implied melodies, the piece exudes complexity, while retaining a simple listening experience. Like the sea, the music washes over you effortlessly, yet hints at a deeper artistic level that can only be enjoyed through active mental decomposition of the sounds on offer. Stream and buy Nighttime Tides at the link below.

Manwomanchild: Awkward Island

Awkward island is the new album from Philadelphia band Manwomanchild. The ten tracks are light airy pop songs, in the vein of Matt and Kim, Peter, Bjorn and John, etc. Crisp production and lo-fi touches embellish nice catchy songs, with some interesting changes. No boundary pushing  or grand artistic statements here, just a nice album that is easy on the ears. Stream and buy Awkward Island at the link below.

Steve Nash: World Outside My Window

UK label Small Bear Records has released, World Outside My Window, the debut album from Isle of Man singer/songwriter Steve Nash. The ten tracks, produced and engineered by Small Bear Records maven Phil Reynolds, are smooth, stylish and catchy. Mellow arrangements, blended with intimate vocals, highlight an album of folk based indie rock. Nash makes a strong artistic statement with songs about life and an album that is tight and compelling. Stream and download World Outside My Window at the link below.

Dead Professional: You and Me Both

Virginia's Dead Professional, aka singer/songwriter John Harouff, has released a two track EP, You and Me Both. Channeling influences from Tom Petty to Rockpile, the tracks have a nice country rock feel, that recalls LA much more than Virginia. The songs are catchy, the performances memorable and the EP leaves one wanting more, much more. The release is out digitally, but will also be available in a very limited edition lathe cut square vinyl package. Stream and buy You and Me both at the link below.

7faz: Faza C

Faza C is the third EP in the series from Polish drone specialists 7faz. The almost 29 minute work continues the series' focus of melodic and inventive drone pieces, which highlight varied instrumentation and techniques. As always, 7faz gives us music that is both pleasant to listen to and intellectually interesting as artistic works. This series continues to deliver some of the best drone art that we have heard. A definite must have. Stream and buy Faza C at the link below.

Limestone Chorus: Deer Friends

Canadian band Limestone Chorus have released their debut full length, Deer Friends. The ten tracks are a sublime blend of folk and dream pop. With similarities to Real Estate and Local Natives, the band delivers an album of stylish pop songs with a smooth sheen, nice harmonies and a varied feel, that keeps things fresh and interesting. Tight musicianship, catchy arrangements and strong vocals abound. Watch the video for album track Woods and Water, then stream and buy Deer Friends at the link below.

Dave Rave & The Governors: Radio Rave

New York City artist Dave Rave is back with, Radio Rave, his third album with backing band, The Governors. Rave is an in demand songwriting partner and constant touring musician, with tons of musical chops.The twelve tracks are pristine pop rock, which showcase a mature songwriter at the height of his powers. Superlative arrangements and production highlight an album that is strong from start to finish. Few release have the depth, balance and musicianship of this release. This is a must have. Stream and buy Radio Rave at the link below.

Naked On My Own: Elevated

Elevated is the new album from Polish experimental project Naked On My Own. The nine tracks blend elements from shoegaze, post rock, garage and drone, into a tasty, ethereal sonic experience. The album is the work of artist/producer Jarek Leskiewicz, in collaboration with drummer Russell Keeble and a myriad of contributors. With atmospheric vocals, imaginative synth pads, heavy guitars and great sonic depth, the band delivers a compelling album that is a must have. Stream and buy Elevated at the link below.

Politburo: Barrington Way

Barrington Way is the sophomore album from Manchester, UK psych rockers Politburo. The ten tracks tread through post-punk waters with originality and panache. The album infuses influences that hearken back to the days of the mods and offerings from The Jam and The Who, while channeling neither. Politburo have their own sonic vision, which offers expansive tracks with both raw simplicity and polished complexity, woven together in a tapestry of inspired music. Stream and download Barrington Way at the link below.

Hood Smoke: Rough Around The Hedges

Chicago's Hood Smoke have released their third album, Rough Around The Hedges. The ten tracks are a varied journey through pop, with R&B, rock and jazz influences. What results is an album of depth and charm, featuring stunning vocals, strong arrangements and polished production. Smooth, enjoyable and accomplished, these are musicians showcasing mastery of the craft in a radio ready album. Stream and buy Rough Around The Hedges at the link below.