Theo Kandel – “The Station”
-If you’re a fan of rolling rock energy, definitely click play on this one. I’ve been featuring Kandel’s music for a few years now and it’s easy to hear why I keep saying yes. The lyrical agility here reminds me a lot of what I like about Adam Melchor’s writing. Kandel’s guitar work flows with this buoyant, energetic style that invites the listener to dance along. If you’ve ever had a “long night,” in a good way, then this is a track that you’ll appreciate. On a personal note, this song makes me feel about 200 years old though because it’s been a really long time since I’ve had this sort of wild, long night. Good for Kandel and his friends, though, because this is evidence of seizing the day, or the night, as it were!
Stefan J. Selbert – “Rolling Dust”
-When I think about “folk rock” as a genre, I almost always default to a Tom Petty sound. I feel fairly confident in saying that Selbert’s vibe on this track is heavily influenced by Petty (and related artists) with its slow but consistent rhythm and inviting guitar work. The effect on the vocal does a nice job of creating a subtle message right in the midst of the mix, but the song is greater than just the music or the lyrics. It’s a whole mood. The listener feels a connection with this sense of being that sits right in the middle of the production mix. I’m not sure if that makes sense, but just listen and you’ll hear what I mean. This is honestly Dawes-level indie rock and I’m super glad to be able to support this type of songwriting and production.
Fifth Valley – “Least Expected Things”
-There’s a genuine sense of rising tension in the composition here, which keeps the listener feeling like the next measure might crescendo into a power rock ballad. Something about the overall style (maybe it’s the effect on the guitars?) makes me think of early 90s alt rock in some elements. By the time the listener gets to the satisfying crash of the chorus, the whole tension is resolved and the melodic energy takes over. In typical indie/alt rock fashion the vocals are a bit covered over in some places, but the overall style is still quite satisfying here. If the words on the bridge are any indication, the song is about appreciating moments in life because you never know how long these “unexpected things” are going to last. I can respect that message and definitely support this track’s overall vibe.
Image courtesy: Theo Kandel IG
(ALSO! If you love folk rock music, consider following this REGULARLY UPDATED playlist!)
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