EL VY
Return to the Moon
EL VY is a relatively new band composed of members from bands The National, Menomena and Ramona Falls. Likewise, their sound is accurately described as a mixture of these bands. Their songs encompass a general rock feel that is both musically complex and laid back enough to just enjoy. The vocals are simplistic, but compliment the percussive effects from the drummer and guitar players. Their new album, Return to the Moon, releases Friday, Oct. 30, but previews of their new songs are available on NPR and YouTube.
Foxing
Dealer
Foxing is a relatively underground alternative-rock band with an incredible raw and emotional sound. The group prepares to drop their second album, Dealer, on Friday, Oct. 30. Musically, Foxing mixes beautiful chord progressions with vocals that change from innocent and sweet to almost screaming, creating a tension-and-release style that moves their songs from start to finish. The group utilizes dynamics and style changes in a way that defines and sets its sound apart from other alternative bands. Each song’s careful crafting shows; while listening, it’s obvious that they are well thought-out and very deliberate. Be sure to catch Dealer at the end of the month.
Ian Fletcher Thornley
Secrets
Thornley, the former lead singer and guitarist of Big Wrecks, has decided to stray from his hard-rock roots with his first solo release, Secrets. The album, dropping on Oct. 30 as well, follows a path much more personal to Thornley than those explored through Big Wreck endeavors. To both listeners and Thornley himself, Secrets is a completely different solo experiment. He has a raunchy, bluesy voice that fills out otherwise melodic guitar riffs and progressions. Previews of the songs on the new album can be found on Thornley’s YouTube, and based on the samples, there’s no doubt that Secrets‘ entire tracklist will be well worth the wait.
Guy Garvey
Courting The Squall
Guy Garvey, a former member of Elbow, marks his first solo venture with Courting The Squall, an LP that releases Friday, Oct. 30. Garvey creates a certain change of pace which lures listeners back to “common ground” sounds with sensual vocals, meaningful lyrics and groovy backup. Garvey seems pretty sensitive in his songs, but at the same time makes listeners feel almost provocative through his lyrics. Although considered an alternative artist, obvious blues and Latin influences make Garvey truly amazing and unique.
Kirk Knight
Late Knight Special
Known for his work with Joey Bada$$ and Mick Jenkins, Kirk Knight is making a name for himself with his new album, Late Knight Special. Knight, a rapper hailing from the East Coast, writes creative lyrics that embody New York’s grit. The young artist has become very successful in a very short amount of time, and for good reason. His catchy songs often discuss topics the Millennial generation appreciates. The album officially releases Friday, but listeners can catch a first look on NPR.
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