I caught up with California rocker Nick Reese, vocalist of Joyous Wolf, for a delightful and lengthy discussion about music, upcoming work, songwriting, inspiration, touring, and much more. Humble with charisma to boot, Reese shares tour stories, favorite lyrics, singing and songwriting advice, and even the three records he’d listen to while stranded on a deserted island. Check out the deluxe-length interview here, and stream Joyous Wolf’s EP, Place In Time, available on all platforms.
Interview with Stone Nobles
For my first official interview with the BANDED PR team, I sat down with upcoming rock band, Stone Nobles! Hanging out with Ross, Dave and Lance, they passionately talk about the importance of staying true and having fun while making music. In the interview, the Rhode Island natives and I discuss concept ideas for the band and 2021, new music, and their endless support with the help of TikTok followers. The guys also follow up on how quarantine has worked in their favor, as far as their writing process. Stone Nobles, including their hit single, ‘Child of the Night’ are available on streaming services now.
The Breakdown Episode 1: Our First Time
Welcome to the first episode of The Breakdown!
Owner of Banded PR, Rebecca Potzner and owner of Horns Up, Justin Spartacus, are teaming up for a new weekly series that will cover everything in the music industry: social media marketing, music streaming, touring, is rock dying and so much more! We are here to spread the good faith that is rock’n’roll. For the first episode we decided to kick it off with “ Our First Time” and no not sex.
Celebrating Black Artists That Shaped Our Love For Music
Where would we be without the talents of our Black brothers and sisters? Without a lot of our favorite music, that’s for damn sure.
February is Black History Month and we’d be remiss to not celebrate some of the incredible artists that have helped shape our love and appreciation for music.
At the end, find a playlist chockfull of Black artists from the beginning of Rock N’ Roll all the way to Lizzo and The New Respects.
ARETHA FRANKLIN
By Isabel
When discussing music history, there is no way around her: Aretha Franklin, the 'Queen of Soul'. Like probably no other, Aretha Franklin musically embodies emotion, passion, and unmatched energy by moving between different genres such as gospel, jazz, and soul.
Her songs (like the unattainable 'Respect') not only echoed in interpersonal relationships but also found their way into the civil rights movement with her music as sources for encouragement and hope.
Superlatives are easily used too often and expressions like 'one of a kind' are hastily put out, but in this case, not even this seems to be enough. Listening to Aretha Franklin's albums is the best thing you can do on any given day, and only with time will we understand which impressive artist has left us in 2018.
GARY CLARK JR.
by Baylee Avery
In 2017, I found Gary Clark Jr’s music randomly after seeing ‘Numb’ appear in my Discover Weekly playlist on Spotify. One listen and I was already infatuated with his soulful, electrifying sound. I was also thinking that he could be the next great voice in modern blues rock and to this day, I still think he is just that.
Gary Clark Jr has performed with many iconic rockers: Tom Petty, Eric Clapton, The Rolling Stones, Willie Nelson, just to name a few. He even performed alongside Bonnie Raitt and Chris Stapleton at The Grammys, honoring B.B. King in 2016. If that doesn’t show the immaculate talent that he has as a rock ‘n’ roll artist, I don’t know what. Not to mention - He won, not one but three Grammy’s for his latest album, This Land. If you listen to that album - in which the title track confronts racism - you’ll see why it did.
One big reason why his music is so special to me is because he is everything I have ever wanted to hear in modern blues rock. He has a sound that is absolutely remarkable and memorable. It’s easy to get lost in his music, as it is absolutely captivating. His riffs, his voice, his lyrics, everything about his music is special to me.
JIMI HENDRIX
by Cherri Cheetah
One of the greatest guitarists that ever lived. His music was one of the first I heard when I first became interested in classic rock at 17. His music has brought me so much comfort and joy for the few years since then. Jimi's songs were one of the first few that I truly, and deeply, fell in love with on my endless journey of exploring the musical genre that is rock. His guitar playing, his voice, all of it combined is one of my favorites ever. When I listen to Jimi Hendrix's records, I think of being young and sad, finding happiness & comfort in only his songs on repeat, for days & days on end.
My favorite tracks by him are "Purple Haze," and "Crosstown Traffic." The second has that uncanny, rough sound that sounds so real; it sounds like you are actually there in the studio during it's recording, and I love it so much. I wish I was alive to see him at Woodstock, I wish I was alive to have met him once, just once, so I could sit & chat with him about music and everything else. He was a fantastic performer, one that comes along once in a generation, and I adore him very much.
MICHAEL JACKSON
by Kiki Gilligan
Everyone starts with one. One act, one album, one performance. You never listen to music the same ever again. The artist that started the thrill of it all for me was Michael Jackson. Ironically, wanting to be a rock and roll princess started back with not even rock music at all, but with the King of Pop. The album was Thriller, and it was my mom’s first vinyl record that she had passed down to me when I was in my single digits. I’d spin that thing and dance in my basement all day, every day.
Just like for so many others, Michael Jackson crafted and shaped what performance and music were to me. When I thought about getting on stage, I wanted to be just like Michael. He, inevitably, was a talent this world would not be the same without. He grabbed the attention of an audience like he pulled a ping pong ball from behind every audience member’s ear. “How the heck did he do it,” they ask? That’s just Michael. Always dancing with the stars, and mesmerizing like the night.
Black History Month makes me think about Michael a lot. I wonder what he would think about the injustices around the world today. I think of the music he would be making, and how much he would’ve helped to heal the world. But I like to remind myself all the time that I am who am I today, greatly, because of Michael. I wouldn’t trade the influence that man has had on me as a human being and a creator for one second.
PRINCE
by Evie Wagner
Although I haven’t been a fan of Prince my entire life, when I discovered his music at fifteen I knew I had found something special. Truly, I don’t know why it took me so long, I had heard the hits gracing classic rock radio stations but never realized they were his, or maybe I was just too young to really appreciate his art. Unfortunately, like with many other artists, I didn’t discover him until after his final curtain call on Earth. Prince Rogers Nelson’s death in 2016 sparked an interest in me to listen and learn more, and that’s when I finally discovered the bright, flamboyant, unapologetically original whirlwind of talent and creation that he was.
It’s no secret that Prince’s music, fashion, and persona felt familiar and comforting to anyone who has ever felt like (or been labeled a) freak or outcast. It’s also no secret that I think he put on the best Super Bowl performance of all time. Highly versatile, spanning multiple genres (funk, pop, rock, blues, jazz, psychedelica, disco, just to name a few) and always with a new trick up his (colorful) sleeve, Prince was like a violet, visionary flamingo, a playful peacock of performance and showmanship. He was an alchemical creator of music that could be an answer to whatever we’re experiencing in this given moment. There’s a Prince song for every mood, vibe, problem or predicament. Crushing on someone? “Kiss” and “I Wanna Be Your Lover” are on repeat. Need a Monday morning pick-me-up? Time to blast “Let’s Go Crazy” while downing that espresso. Want to let your worries go and feel like the main character of your own life again? Put on “Purple Rain” and breathe in the fresh air. Going thrifting? “Raspberry Beret” is a must play (No, seriously - it comes on every time I’m in Goodwill).
Prince made music for every kind of listener, and there’s something for everyone in his catalogue. I’m a firm believer that “When Doves Cry” is one of the greatest, most intricate and well-made pieces of music ever created. When it comes to highlighting people of color who have made incredible contributions to music, Prince is an unmissable spectacle, a VIP (Very Important Performer), and a guest of honor at the table. Prince celebrated black excellence and power, he made damn sure everyone knew his name, and in doing this, carved out a place for himself as rock and roll royalty. Legends never truly die, so, here’s to you, Prince, and all you’ve created, given, inspired, and made. Long may you reign.
SISTER ROSETTA THARPE
by Rebecca Potzner
Did you know a woman invented Rock N’ Roll? To be truthfully honest, I didn’t up until this past year. Before Chuck Berry, before Little Richard, Elvis Presley, or Johnny Cash…Sister Rosetta Tharpe was leading the way and earned the name, Godmother of Rock N’ Roll. In fact, her groundbreaking guitar technique inspired the likes of Berry, Presley, Cash, and many more. Chuck Berry even said that his entire career was “one long Sister Rosetta Tharpe impersonation..”
Learning guitar at the ripe young age of 4 years old, Tharpe grew up playing Gospel, honing in on her craft and finding her own unique sound. Defying racial, gender, and religious stereotypes, Tharpe was a force to be reckoned with. She stayed true to herself through her music, playing Gospel while crossing the line into expressing sexuality.
Her confidence and authenticity really stood out to me. When compared to male counterparts, Tharpe exclaimed, “Can't no man play like me. I play better than a man”. Preach it, Sister!
Later on, she would go on to tour Europe, exposing Britain to the sound of American Blues. Though her story may have been pushed to the way side for some years now, her mark on pioneering Rock N’ Roll will live forever.
Never forget - a woman invented Rock N’ Roll.
STEVIE WONDER
by Angel Evans
I could go on for centuries about Stevie Wonder and how his music continues to greatly impact my life. Since I was a little girl, Stevie Wonder’s voice has enriched my life and brought infinite smiles upon my face. His album, “Songs In The Key of Life” holds a special place in my heart. It’s a soulful album with a handful of timeless tracks such as: ‘Isn’t She Lovely’ , ‘I Wish’, Knocks Me Off My Feet’ , and ‘Sir Duke’
One of my favorite quotes of Stevie Wonder is, “Just because a man lacks the use of his eyes doesn’t mean he lacks vision.” Stevie is a trailblazer whose heart overflows with an undying passion for music. His musical talents and his immense creativity is something that inspires me every single day. Stevie Wonder is the music. One of my biggest dreams is to be able to hear him live someday. To witness him in all of his glory and soak in the music I've heard all of my life. He’s inspired millions to pursue their dreams and to go the extra mile. Stevie Wonder is a living legend.
Mammoth WVH Brings The Power With New Song, 'You're To Blame'
Wolf Van Halen is back with another release under Mammoth WVH. This time bringing the energy to another level. ‘You’re To Blame’ serves up a heavier sound, a fiery guitar solo, and a view into what’s to come from his debut album.
A force to be reckoned with, Wolf plays all instruments and carries the vocals on not only this single but the entire upcoming album. “What my dad always said is the reason the rhythm section is so tight is, it’s me. Normally with a great rhythm section, they’re really tight because they know exactly what each other are doing. When it comes to drums, and bass, I know exactly what I did with each part so I can kind of react with it, and it goes hand in hand,” Wolf shared with Rolling Stone. Eddie was right. (I mean, of course he was.) The drums and bass melt perfectly together driving the beat of ‘You’re To Blame’.
When it comes time to play live though, Wolf will have a full band backing him including Ronnie Ficarro (bass/vocals), Jon Jourdan (guitars/vocals), Frank Sidoris (guitars) and Garret Whitlock (drums).
Mammoth WVH’s highly anticipated debut album is set to release June 11th via EX1 Records/Explorer1 Music Group. Along with the release date, the track list was shared and revealed that the first single, ‘Distance’ is actually a bonus track. And what a bonus it is! Give it a listen here and check out the full track list below..
TRACK LIST
01. Mr. Ed
02. Horribly Right
03. Epiphany
04. Don't Back Down
05. Resolve
06. You'll Be the One
07. Mammoth
08. Circles
09. The Big Picture
10. Think It Over
11. You're to Blame
12. Feel
13. Stone
14. Distance (Bonus Track)
Greta Van Fleet Tells A Tale of Trouble and Triumph in New Release, 'Heat Above'
“There’s plenty of love left in this world even though it may not seem like it. Let's rise to the stars together.”
Greta Van Fleet’s newest release, ‘Heat Above’ takes us straight to the church of rock n roll. With an ethereal organ build up into rolling drums, Josh’s full-bodied vocals sweep in telling a tale of troubles and triumph.
Bridging the energy between ‘My Way, Soon’ and ‘Age of Machine’, this third release from the upcoming album, The Battle at Garden's Gate, is clear evidence that Greta Van Fleet has fully stepped into their own authentic sound. ‘Heat Above’ is a stunning exploration of what Greta Van Fleet does best. Though no strangers to staying true to themselves, this release feels extremely genuine and reflective of the artists’ Greta Van Fleet have always strived to be.
Listen to ‘Heat Above’ and don’t forget to pre-order the album here.
Paging Doctor Moon Gets Vulnerable with New Release, 'Haunted'
Oh, the wonders of falling in love.
Love is such a gift and finding someone special can be exhilarating. The beginning stages of a relationship is usually the part that’s idolized the most. The chase, the butterflies, the adoration, and seeing la vie en rose. Sadly, relationships aren’t always “picture perfect” for everyone.
Oftentimes, many can find themselves tethered to toxic relationships. Relationships that consist of being gaslit, manipulated, and verbally abused. Breaking free from the endless cycle is easier said than done. Rising alternative indie band Paging Doctor Moon released their second single, Haunted, on February 5th. “Haunted is about a bad relationship that feels like Groundhog Day,” says Kirsten Heibert, founder of Paging Doctor Moon.
“Your mouth in the morning tastes like cigarettes.
It’s a little bit unnerving, but it’s still the best.
And I am haunted, you’re all I ever wanted.
Your bed feels the same as any other day
The bumps on my skin shown not much has changed
But time is passing
No love is everlasting.”
Do you want to know why I believe this song’s a 10/10? Haunted oozes with raw emotion and vulnerability. That’s the beautiful part about an artist. You can take a blank canvas and do whatever you want with it. In this case, Kirsten allowed her words to flow freely from the inner depths of her heart and poured them out to create this cathartic gem.
“Said I didn’t wanna hold you but I lied
When you took your hand away, I cried
I don’t wanna let you waste my time again.”
The lyrics above struck a chord with me the most. Being involved with someone who takes you for granted is soul-crushing. Walking away from the relationship and choosing yourself is the best thing you can do, but nobody said it was a piece of cake. It takes an immense amount of resilience to let someone go. However, it is possible. Haunted is a song that can be a guiding light for anyone who’s struggled or is currently struggling with a toxic relationship. Paging Doctor Moon will continue to release singles this year leading up to a Spring 2021 debut album release.
I love everything about this band, so I'm looking forward to hearing what they release soon!
Interview with Tik Tok Star and Musician, Wavy McGrady
If you’re looking for laid back grooves that “pass the vibe check” look no further than Wavy McGrady. I found Wavy via his Jim Halpert impressions on Tik Tok, and decided to give his music a shot. I am so glad I did, and you will be too. Watch us chat tunes, and stream his music on Spotify today!
RoZY Empowers Listeners With New Single, 'Doll'
Do you ever feel yourself carrying the weight of the world's expectations on your shoulders?
Do you ever experience moments of being overwhelmed with the pressure of “pretending” to have it all together?
I will be the first person to raise my hand and answer yes to both of those questions. RoZY takes a stand against unrealistic expectations and kicks them to the curb with ‘Doll’. The song begins with lead singer, Zoe Flores, sounding off commands that we’ve been told since we were little.
“Sit up straight
Brush your teeth
Don't slouch
You little freak
Shut your mouth
Take a bow
Cross your legs
Now you may speak
Feel like I'm suffocating.”
At a young age, we’ve had society's standards ingrained into our brains. Growing up, girls are often taught to sit up straight, cross their legs, and do not speak until they’ve been spoken to. Boys are often taught to be tough, to not show emotion, and to be manly. What I love the most about ‘Doll’ is that it denounces gender norms, and boldly takes back what society relentlessly tries to steal from us.
Our Originality.
“I’m proud of who I am
No one could ever take that away from me
Oh, hear my call
Cause I’ll never, I’ll never be your doll.”
RoZY empowers listeners to step outside of their comfort zone and to be unashamed about what makes them unique. Doll is all about embracing your ‘imperfections’, not settling for less than you deserve, and knowing your worth. This is the kind of message that’s needed in this day in age. It speaks volumes for the souls who’ve felt trapped by the constant comparisons and expectations of this world. It may sound cliche, but there’s true freedom in being yourself. Doll articulates that message with a fiery intensity.
Natalia Soul Takes Us On A Journey of Love With Debut EP, Hurt You
Love is beautiful, it’s mesmerizing, and it can be messy.
Natalia Soul’s debut EP, Hurt You, cuts deep into the feels following the tumultuous rollercoaster ride of love we all know too well. An emotional journey, Hurt You is about loving at your own risk, breaking hearts, and desire. Released exactly a week before Valentine’s Day, it’s the perfect soundtrack for those head over heels or celebrating being single. Truly bringing the EP full circle, it closes with a beautiful version of ‘Hurt You’ in Spanish - ‘Voy a Lastimarte’.
“There’s something to be said about a song that delivers emotion and dynamics when it’s stripped down. So, instead of goin, “let’s throw everything at this tune in the production stage!” I decided to take a minimalistic approach. And It was to my surprise a really fun process. It became more about the spirit of this song?It was, much like in one’s life, the undertaking of deconstructing and revealing the true nature of the music...which meant a lot more Spanish guitar!”
Anyone navigating the world of dating in 2021 is sure to find the EP beyond relatable with lyrics like “He don’t know what he wants. I’m damned If I do, I’m damned If I don’t.” In ‘Hurt You’, Natalia addresses the struggle of questioning everything and just telling the truth. Continuing with pure honesty, ‘Thirsty’ is a sexy lay it all on the line and let’s get it on type vibe.
The full EP is truly an alluring listen. It’s the perfect soundtrack to cozy up and enjoy a cup of coffee (or wine) and basque in the beauty of it’s jazzy Spanish spin and Natalia’s smooth voice.
Hurt You is now available on all streaming platforms. Give it a listen below…
Kiss Kiss Bang Hits The Mark With Hungry, High And Seeing Things
Nothing could stop Kiss Kiss Bang from crankin’ out some new tunes, not even losing a founding member or COVID-19.
Born and bred in the heart of Kentucky, Trevor Smith, Andrew Hopper, and Clayton Crowder make up the rowdy rock ‘n’ roll 3-piece. Though the band (and the music industry) has gone through some big adjustments, Kiss Kiss Bang came out stronger than ever with the release of their second EP, Hungry, High And Seeing Things.
“Over the course of the pandemic, Kiss Kiss Bang came together, safely, and recorded four new tracks. With a hired drummer and one founding member short, the band spent three days beating out these new songs before going into the studio.”
Hungry, High And Seeing Things is an unapologetic 20 minute listen of searing guitars, and lush harmonies with a shot of southern rock. From beginning to end, the band’s rambunctious energy shines through with a clean finish. Kiss Kiss Bang’s sound has always been true to the personality of the band, but Hungry, High And Seeing Things truly hits the mark.
Give the EP a listen, now available only on Bandcamp. It’s a $5 well spent, trust me.
Listen to Tetrarch's Addictive New Release, 'You Never Listen' [VIDEO]
Back in June 2020, we sang our praises for the 4-piece metal band as they had just released ‘I’m Not Right’. Now, Tetrarch feeds the fire with ‘You Never Listen’, the second single off of their upcoming album, Unstable.
With layered downtuned guitar riffs, swirling vocal melodies, a driving drumbeat, and heavy bass, ‘You Never Listen’ takes an electrifying hold on the listener. Best experienced at the highest volume possible, the heavy melodic track builds anticipation, a release of pressure, the power of letting go, and an ache to headbang.
Feeling engulfed in the music, like shockwaves shooting through veins clinging onto broken emotions, the build up of percussion keeps your heart on edge while the driving power chords bring a level of energy only unlocked through the strength of music. Tied together by Josh’s emotion evoking vocals, ‘You Never Listen’ is an addictive listen.
“You Never Listen' is about having the strength to say enough is enough and to rid yourself of those toxic situations,” shared lead vocalist and guitarist, Josh Fore. You Never Listen' is for anybody who has struggled or is struggling through a broken relationship — whether it be with a family member, friend, significant other, or even with themselves. So many times, we find that people we once were close with or felt like we knew well show a darker and different side of themselves that forces us apart.”
Historically, Tetrarch’s lyricism has been profoundly relatable and ‘You Never Listen’ is certainly no different. The official music video does an incredible job of capturing the energy of the band and song while following along with a story line that digs deeper into the theme of struggling through toxic relationships.
Guitarist, Diamond Rowe shares, "we wanted to do something unexpected and approach the song from a different lens. Conceptually, the video follows a young kid who is obviously living in a bad situation in a messed-up home. Throughout the video, the kid deals with the inner voices and visions in his head, represented by the band members appearing and disappearing, as he struggles to understand what's real and what isn't. As the song ramps up, we wanted to portray the kid as telling those voices to shut up as he takes control and rids himself of the negative energy around him."
If you’re anything like me, ‘You Never Listen’ has quickly become an anthem of “F*@K YOU, I’m going to do me” and you simply can’t get enough of this track. Great news for us, Tetrarch announced their new album will release on April 30, 2021. Pre-order UNSTABLE below and stream ‘You Never Listen’ everywhere now.
OUT APRIL 30, 2021
"You Never Listen” Lyrics
I can’t believe this is where we are
You never listen
I never thought we could fall this far
I never listened
There’s something I’ve been needing to say
I’m getting sick of the fights and the shots you take
It’s chilling the words you choose
Now you’re hiding when they’re spit at you
I can’t believe this is where we are
You never listen
I never thought we could fall this far
Won’t change my mind
I’ll never listen to you
Don’t you know that you’re a burden on me
You’re a monster I thought that I’d never see
It’s a feeling that I won’t miss
Are you happy that it’s come to this
I can’t believe this is where we are
You never listen (I never listen to you)
I never thought we could fall this far
Won’t change my mind
I’ll never listen to
Won’t listen to you anymore
I won’t listen to you anymore
I won’t listen to you anymore
I won’t listen to you anymore (Why are you here)
I won’t listen to you anymore (Get it through your head)
I can’t believe this is where we are
You never listen
I can’t believe this is where we are
You never listen (I never listen to you)
I never thought we could fall this far
Won’t change my mind
I’ll never listen to you
I can’t believe this is where we are
You never listen (I never listen to you)
I never thought we could fall this far
Won’t change my mind
I’ll never listen to you
I won’t listen to you anymore
I won’t listen to you anymore
I won’t listen to you anymore
I won’t
Won’t listen to you anymore
FOLLOW TETRARCH
Old 97's 'Twelfth'; a Sweet and Sour Introspection [Review]
If Twelfth is your introduction to Old 97s, you’re sorely late to the party, but we welcome you just the same. If you’re like me and have been following them for most of their careers, (I’m one of those Longer Than You’ve Been Alive kids) then you’ll find Twelfth to be the familiar punchy vulnerability you’ve come to expect of Old 97s, while still standing resolutely as its own album with a distinct sound.
Old 97’s have remained relevant in the music-sphere since their inception, but I was anxiously anticipating more new music after the three year drought after Graveyard Whistling. I was rewarded in 2018 with Love the Holidays, but remained insatiably starved for non-Christmas themed tuneage.
Enter: Twelfth.
Many of the tracks on Twelfth are a navel gazing sort of sweet and sour introspection, that lends itself to an even deeper vulnerability than past work we’ve seen from the 97’s. The not-exactly-country-alt-rock is hard to box into one genre, but the north Texas influences are obvious, as in most of Miller’s work. He’s referred to the band’s work as “loud folk” in the past, I would say I agree with him.
Miller’s lyrics are party songs that flirt with heartbreak, and this album has not escaped that. Diamonds on Neptune is the standout classic on this album, with Turn off the TV following in a close second. Both have all the fun juvenile energy of drinking songs, with the former being a sweet foil to the latter.
The lyrics to Diamonds on Neptune remain the most poetically significant to me on the album;
“You know I'm always on the move
Leavin' is what I do
I go from neon sign to neon sign”
The spirit of nomadic wanderlust is heavy in many of Miller’s lyrics, and it’s something I’ve come to expect, but these really hit home in a crunchy, deep feeling kind of way. The dark whimsy of being a cast out misfit is so well bottled here. The absolute catharsis of putting on this record and finding a long, flat stretch of highway to tear up cannot be overstated.
The entire album is top notch, and I’m giving it an 9/10, only because in my heart, nothing will ever top their 1999 Fight Songs.
Turn off the TV and go stream Twelfth on Spotify.
Where To Get The Best Band Swag
For the longest time you could ever only get cool band threads from either a concert or festival or from the corpo tyrants of Spencers & Hot Topic. But not anymore!
Here are my go to picks for band swag and threads to keep your closet fresh.
1. Depop
Depop has been around for minute, but surprisingly still flys under the radar. This is THE ultimate thrift shop app. Do you remember going to your first concert and wishing you had grabbed a tee? Well there’s probably someone selling it on here for way cheaper than it was back in the day. My band tee collection has doubled in size because of this app and my shopping cart is never ending.
2. Negative Creep
Negative Creep is a UK based online store and they are all about distressed and bleached shirts. They choose iconic bands & artists you love and create custom distressed shirts for you to show off, and they’re pretty sick. If you want to pay a lil’ money for an awesome premium shirt, they are the ones to go to.
3. Are You Selling
Are You Selling prides themselves in vintage. They find some of thee sickest and rarest shirts out there and release them in drops for you to grab. Metallica, AC/DC, Guns’N’Roses, you name it, they’ll have it. They are pretty pricey however, but if you want vintage you’re gonna put down for it.
4. Vintage Hell
Vintage Hell is a side project venture by the lead singer of Behemoth, Nergal. Similar to Are You Selling, he scours the web finding the best of the best in vintage shirts, but it’s a first come first serve basis. He’ll post them on Instagram and you will have to DM for purchase. They are quite the price point but, with every purchase he throws in extra gifts like, stickers and autographs for a personal touch. If you’re looking for the best of the best in vintage, he’s the one to check out.
The Pale White's 'Confession Box' [REVIEW]
The Pale White, an indie-rock trio from Newcastle, UK, are back with a brilliant track - “Confession Box,” which was released on January 21st, 2021. It follows their previous singles of last year, which were “Take Your Time,” and “Glue.” The Pale White consist of brothers Adam (lead vocals and guitar), and Jack Hope (drums), and long time friend Tom Booth (bass). “Confession Box” comes right before their debut album, Infinite Pleasure, which drops on April 23rd, 2021.
“Confession Box” is a song about a broken, toxic relationship that went on for way too long, but finally it’s ending. It’s about looking inside yourself, questioning who you are, what you are doing, and what you want. It’s about laying there, sleepless night after sleepless night, knowing that who you’re with isn’t who you deserve, and vice-versa for your ex-partner. Your ex-partner had enough of you, and you had enough of them, so you ended things, but you’re questioning who’s better off now because of it, you, or them? It’s overall a song about much needed heartbreak. A song that speaks of the uncertainty of not knowing how things will turn out after you choose to end a relationship, even though it’s the best choice for your mental wellbeing. You think it’s the best choice at the moment, but you’re afraid of getting to the other side of the fence, you’re afraid of a future alone and lost. “Confession Box” is everything we feel but don’t have the words to say when we’re stuck in a toxic relationship.
The Pale White have so many songs like this, similar in theme and in sound, and I wholeheartedly love them. “Confession Box” sounds like a song that would’ve been on a Twilight movie soundtrack. It makes me picture being in a rainy city, like Seattle, drinking too much coffee and taking long drives between tall, tall trees, thinking about life and love. “Confession Box” is an existential crisis wrapped up in an indie rock blanket. I love it, and I’m incredibly excited for their upcoming record. April 23rd can’t arrive sooner.
About Infinite Pleasure, The Pale White said “We’ve been talking about our debut album for a long time and now it’s actually happening. It feels surreal. Infinite Pleasure is the concept that as humans, we’re constantly chasing that ‘something’ throughout our lives. Sometimes the journey can be the most fun without realising. We’re definitely reflecting on everything we’ve done so far and feeling incredibly proud about it as we take the leap into a new chapter of The Pale White.”
The Pale White’s debut album, Infinite Pleasure, will be out on April 23rd, 2021. You can preorder it here.
Infinite Pleasure’s Tracklist:
1) Infinite Pleasure
2) Glue
3) Take Your Time
4) That Dress
5) Nothing Lasts Forever
6) Medicine
7) Confession Box
8) Anechoic Chamber Blues
9) Sonder
10) ...Still No Taste
11) Frank Sinatra
Stream “Confession Box” on Spotify here.