Lately our hearts have been tragically wounded by gigantic losses of so many music icons in the last year and a half. There seems to be an unending shock to the system every few months when yet another legend passes and it is gutting music fans. The worst part is that for those who love rock and roll, it almost seems that there is no one to replace these icons.

The alternative rock project of Manchester based producer and songwriter Mike Lawetto, Well Done You, has fashioned ‘Part Wolf’, a gritty but upbeat juggernaut of a song with a chorus that will be lodged in your head within seconds of your first listen.

Part Wolf is one of the oldest tracks taken from the upcoming album, but acts as a *perfect* introduction to how the rest of the record will sound to listeners. The creation of the album has been a time consuming but very rewarding task for Mike, and more singles are due before summer, with an EP and the album to follow towards autumn, finally rounding the year off with another single release.

Although it’s only been a few weeks since the official release for Well Done You, some recent airplay for the track on Kerrang! Radio, is definitely a promising sign, and I'm pretty sure there will be more after that!

Show him some love on his socials!

Twitter

Facebook

Official Site

Passion and purpose tend to go hand in hand, so it’s little wonder that in the case of Shane Henry there’s an indelible bond that fuses his music to his message. One is intrinsically linked to the other. As a singer, songwriter and guitarist, he’s made it his mission to impart the emotion and inspiration he’s accumulated through the sum total of his life experiences. 

Hunter MacLeod is currently scoping out the latest and greatest unsigned indie bands to feature on upcoming #UnsignedTuesday articles, so in the meantime yours truly has decided to share with you some indie finds that I've discovered recently.

For this week's #UnsignedTuesday, I wanted to introduce you to an up and coming indie band that is tearing up the UK music scene, Franklin.

Busk, verb, to entertain by dancing, singing, or reciting on the street or in a public place.

We’ve all been there, generally in a larger city in which we live or travel. You go to a high traffic or tourist centric area, and there on the corner, or by a fountain, perhaps in a park is an individual that is perhaps playing an instrument with a hat or case open in front filled with some change and random bills. Sometimes they’re good, sometimes…Not so much.

If you ever get a chance to go to Seattle, the place to go and find some buskers is Pike’s Place Market. They are so prevalent that they even have a time limit. Many of them are actually very talented and entertaining. One such person that started her career there was today’s artist Whitney Mongé. She had moved to Seattle from her hometown of Spokane. She soon discovered that she was making more money busking than being a barista at a coffee shop and well, she never looked back. She was so good that she was featured in the 2014 award winning documentary “Find Your Way: a Busker’s Documentary”.

Mongé has two previous releases, the “Steadfast” EP and full album “Heartbeat”, has done a few West Coast tours, and an extraordinary performance on local influential broadcast Band in Seattle with her fantastic backing band. (It’s on Youtube if you’d like to give it a listen. You won’t be disappointed!) She has also has supported national acts, Ziggy Marley, Allen Stone, Lukas Nelson & The Promise of The Real, Crystal Bowersox, and Brendan James. She recently reached and surpassed a Kickstarter goal for her upcoming EP “Stone” being released January 16^th of next year, soon to be followed with a West Coast tour.

Mongé is an authentic and extraordinary song writer, but what really stands out is her distinctive and exceptional, rich, and sultry voice. In her own words she was raised in a house filled with rhythm and blues. She now likes to call her music Alternative Soul, being raised in the Pacific Northwest, with nods to being highly influenced by the regional rock music of the ‘90s.

Whitney Mongé is a pure talent, genuine, and straight up gloriously good. Mongé has vocal emotive chops worthy of comparisons to Brittany Howard, the deep well old-soul emotional story telling worthy of Tracy Chapman, all within a approach that is absolutely and uniquely her own. Whitney Mongé is a complete artist that touches the deep recesses of a listener’s emotional wheelhouse, whether those parts love to grove or feel deeply. The music is beyond pure entertainment, it taps the listener’s emotive edge of ache and bliss.

Show her some love on her socials!

Official Site

Facebook

Twitter

Bandcamp

About Hunter: Hunter is a freelance music writer that concentrates on finding outstanding, unsigned, unknown and under appreciated bands from around the world and unabashedly wields them onto the unsuspecting and the great unwashed. His work has appeared on music sites kilScene (NYC/Brooklyn), Mother Church Pew (NYC), and East of Eighth (Nashville). One of his writings has even been shared and press quoted by a Grammy Nominated artist (Do the Grammy's even matter anymore?!) After a particularly difficult and surreal week of work about five years ago Hunter decided to search the dark, dusty corners and obscure underbelly of the Internet. It was after hearing one of the same 30 songs that a so called "New Rock" radio station played yet again on his way home. That is what started him n his quixotic quest. Since then through many seasons of bleeding ears, anguish, and many neurotic episodes, he has learned well how to hone the power of the Internet in his search. Along with that, he has a vast array of concerts and music rouges throughout the US and around the world, and his goal is to find some of the most unique, fresh, and kick you in the ear hole artists and bands. You can follow him on Twitter or Facebook (if you can find him!) About Hunter: Hunter is a freelance music writer that concentrates on finding outstanding, unsigned, unknown and under appreciated bands from around the world and unabashedly wields them onto the unsuspecting and the great unwashed. His work has appeared on music sites kilScene (NYC/Brooklyn), Mother Church Pew (NYC), and East of Eighth (Nashville). One of his writings has even been shared and press quoted by a Grammy Nominated artist (Do the Grammy's even matter anymore?!) After a particularly difficult and surreal week of work about five years ago Hunter decided to search the dark, dusty corners and obscure underbelly of the Internet. It was after hearing one of the same 30 songs that a so called "New Rock" radio station played yet again on his way home. That is what started him n his quixotic quest. Since then through many seasons of bleeding ears, anguish, and many neurotic episodes, he has learned well how to hone the power of the Internet in his search. Along with that, he has a vast array of concerts and music rouges throughout the US and around the world, and his goal is to find some of the most unique, fresh, and kick you in the ear hole artists and bands. You can follow him on Twitter or Facebook (if you can find him!)

WALL OF ORANGE

Do you remember when music sounded lush? What exactly do I mean by that you may ask? I came of age at the tail end of the last gasp of the musical hegemony that was vinyl. It was still king and was the primary format in which music was released. It was a time when stereos were full systems. Amplifiers, equalizers, receivers, turn table, cassette/CD player, sub-woofers, tweeters (Not the users of Twitter for those confused), three foot tall floor speakers, etc. These HIFI stereos were monsters! A high end system could easily take up a good portion of an angst laden teenager’s bedroom. And  the mere volume of sound that these systems could push out…I mean seriously, if it was cranked up to the upper registers of their limits, at times you could hear the music from blocks (plural) away. It was not unusual back 20 or 25 years ago a kid home alone, blasting his favorite rock artist, would lead to a knock on the door by Johnny Law. This was invariably due to a noise complaint from a cantankerous old WW II Vet living three or four blocks away.

Wall of Orange from Dallas, TX reminds me through their self titled release that sometimes I wish I still had my old sound system that I ditched years ago because it was such a pain in the ass to set up every time that I moved. Honestly, Wall of Orange’s self titled debut release reminds me of a day when the music was expansive, huge sounding, rich & plush. The sound can be best described as nods to Shoegaze vocals, Psyche-Pop electronica, combined with luxuriant fuzzed out alternative guitar. The album is expertly layered, with beautifully nuanced soundscapes.

The group was born as a collection of songs via Gary Parks, an indie movie and commercial music producer and former member of Dallas space rock legends The Tomorrowpeople. After an extensive demo process, recording for the eight songs that would become the debut album began in the Spring of 2016. Parks enlisted longtime musical friends Danny Rix on bass guitar and Matt Hunt on drums and recording began at Pure Evil Studios. With the addition of guitarist Jay Spence and multi-instrumentalist/backing vocalist Aaron Long, the line-up was completed and rehearsals began for a regional tour in the Fall of 2016.

The initial track that introduced me to the group is opening track “Sweetest Blue”. With deep, distorted synthesizer and guitar transitioning to the spacious vocals of Parks this track definitely at times has the familiar echoes and flavors of perhaps The Jesus Mary Chain, Smashing Pumpkins or My Bloody Valentine, but with a deeper bottom end, and a fuller contemporary sound.  Other strong tracks include the driving bass line, trance-like synth tome of “Small Hour Crimes”. There is the beautifully composed and delicate, acoustic guitar-centric love song “Little Destroyer”. Combining the best of all elements from the entire album is the dynamic and gloriously optimistic “New Medicine”, this song is a keeper folks.

For an initial release, Wall of Orange has created a barrage of a magnificent sound, taking the best of Shoegaze, Synth-Pop, distorted guitar, and Alternative Rock, marking a truly unique new standard to be admired. In a word, this album is dazzling.

Show them some love on their socials!

Official site

Facebook

Twitter

About Hunter: Hunter is a freelance music writer that concentrates on finding outstanding, unsigned, unknown and under appreciated bands from around the world and unabashedly wields them onto the unsuspecting and the great unwashed. His work has appeared on music sites kilScene (NYC/Brooklyn), Mother Church Pew (NYC), and East of Eighth (Nashville). One of his writings has even been shared and press quoted by a Grammy Nominated artist (Do the Grammy's even matter anymore?!) After a particularly difficult and surreal week of work about five years ago Hunter decided to search the dark, dusty corners and obscure underbelly of the Internet. It was after hearing one of the same 30 songs that a so called "New Rock" radio station played yet again on his way home. That is what started him n his quixotic quest. Since then through many seasons of bleeding ears, anguish, and many neurotic episodes, he has learned well how to hone the power of the Internet in his search. Along with that, he has a vast array of concerts and music rouges throughout the US and around the world, and his goal is to find some of the most unique, fresh, and kick you in the ear hole artists and bands. You can follow him on Twitter or Facebook (if you can find him!) About Hunter: Hunter is a freelance music writer that concentrates on finding outstanding, unsigned, unknown and under appreciated bands from around the world and unabashedly wields them onto the unsuspecting and the great unwashed. His work has appeared on music sites kilScene (NYC/Brooklyn), Mother Church Pew (NYC), and East of Eighth (Nashville). One of his writings has even been shared and press quoted by a Grammy Nominated artist (Do the Grammy's even matter anymore?!) After a particularly difficult and surreal week of work about five years ago Hunter decided to search the dark, dusty corners and obscure underbelly of the Internet. It was after hearing one of the same 30 songs that a so called "New Rock" radio station played yet again on his way home. That is what started him n his quixotic quest. Since then through many seasons of bleeding ears, anguish, and many neurotic episodes, he has learned well how to hone the power of the Internet in his search. Along with that, he has a vast array of concerts and music rouges throughout the US and around the world, and his goal is to find some of the most unique, fresh, and kick you in the ear hole artists and bands. You can follow him on Twitter or Facebook (if you can find him!)

FUTURE THIEVES

So we’re less than a week out from Thanksgiving and into the dreaded “Christmas Music” season. You know what I mean, you go to the store, work, hell you even go into your favorite restaurant for lunch and there it is. “Let it snow, let it snow, let it snoooooooow…” Just remember you have 26 days to get your Christmas shopping out of the way. I know, I know don’t remind you right! But I digress. What is the best way to counter the season ear blahs? Why with a great new earworm for your listening pleasure!

Forming in October of 2013, Future Thieves based out of Nashville first started gigging and touring on a three song EP before laying down the first tracks during the summer of 2015 of their initial release Horizon Lines. After finally releasing it in October of 2015, Future Thieves hit the road performing at such festivals as; Summerfest, Bonnaroo, Forecastle, slots at SXSW. Moving forward, the band continued creating new material on the road which led to exposés by American Songwriter and Reverb Nation’s Connect “Discover” concert series.

Horizon Lines comes off at times like a contemplative, top-down, soundtrack for a day trip on a perfect summer day.  At other times lead singer Elliot Collett’s voice has hints of emotional rasp and release of better days. Horizon Lines musically can best be described as a melodic, expressively airy rock album with strokes of heavier grooves that I’m sure gets the crowd swaying and dancing. It’s a fun album, wrapped with poignant lyrics and stirring storytelling.

The heartening thing is that the music feels genuine in a way that says drummer Gianni Gibson, “The one thing we all found common ground on is when you listen to a band’s record, you want to know that there are humans still playing the music. That’s what makes the true connection. I want someone to listen to our song “On Fire” in headphones and truly feel like you are transported. It takes you somewhere.”

For a first unsigned indie album, Horizon Lines was a magnificent start to what looks to be a promising career. With an expanding fan base, gigging across the U.S. from NYC to L.A., and especially their home base of Nashville, Future Thieves is a band that if they are playing near you, that you should absolutely make a point of seeing. Live on stage is where they thrive and are known to throw a twist to their songs, just to keep things fresh and their fans on their toes.

Show them some love on their socials!

Official Site

Twitter

Facebook

About Hunter: Hunter is a freelance music writer that concentrates on finding outstanding, unsigned, unknown and under appreciated bands from around the world and unabashedly wields them onto the unsuspecting and the great unwashed. His work has appeared on music sites kilScene (NYC/Brooklyn), Mother Church Pew (NYC), and East of Eighth (Nashville). One of his writings has even been shared and press quoted by a Grammy Nominated artist (Do the Grammy's even matter anymore?!) After a particularly difficult and surreal week of work about five years ago Hunter decided to search the dark, dusty corners and obscure underbelly of the Internet. It was after hearing one of the same 30 songs that a so called "New Rock" radio station played yet again on his way home. That is what started him n his quixotic quest. Since then through many seasons of bleeding ears, anguish, and many neurotic episodes, he has learned well how to hone the power of the Internet in his search. Along with that, he has a vast array of concerts and music rouges throughout the US and around the world, and his goal is to find some of the most unique, fresh, and kick you in the ear hole artists and bands. You can follow him on Twitter or Facebook (if you can find him!) About Hunter: Hunter is a freelance music writer that concentrates on finding outstanding, unsigned, unknown and under appreciated bands from around the world and unabashedly wields them onto the unsuspecting and the great unwashed. His work has appeared on music sites kilScene (NYC/Brooklyn), Mother Church Pew (NYC), and East of Eighth (Nashville). One of his writings has even been shared and press quoted by a Grammy Nominated artist (Do the Grammy's even matter anymore?!) After a particularly difficult and surreal week of work about five years ago Hunter decided to search the dark, dusty corners and obscure underbelly of the Internet. It was after hearing one of the same 30 songs that a so called "New Rock" radio station played yet again on his way home. That is what started him n his quixotic quest. Since then through many seasons of bleeding ears, anguish, and many neurotic episodes, he has learned well how to hone the power of the Internet in his search. Along with that, he has a vast array of concerts and music rouges throughout the US and around the world, and his goal is to find some of the most unique, fresh, and kick you in the ear hole artists and bands. You can follow him on Twitter or Facebook (if you can find him!)

EMPIRE MACHINES

When thinking of thriving music scenes around the US, most think perhaps first of Nashville. Seattle certainly is plugging along nicely as it always seems to do. New York and Los Angeles certainly seem to keep a certain status simply due to size and the cultural epicenters that they are known to be. When Austin comes up in a conversation, those with any amount of music acumen know that this Texas city has been a hotbed of music for a very long time. Most may think that it leans mostly country and perhaps a bit blues, but don’t underestimate the fantastic rock scene.

One of those acts that are bringing a unique spin on rock is the group Empire Machine. On first read of their Facebook page, they claim to be indie rock, and there are certainly elements of this at times. However, at times there are elements of electronic, indie pop, and alternative flavors that are sure to please many listeners across genres lines. With a number of singles and an EP under their belts, I am heartened to know that Empire Machine is coming out with a full album in the summer of 2017.

Their three track EP consists of the songs; “Animal Skins”, “Wanted Way”, and appearing twice from their first double single release “The Plan”. It was “Animal Skin” that initially caught my ear, lyrically and aggressive drums, sharp guitar work, and the airy and urgent lyrics and vocals of lead singer/guitarist Matt Blackwell. The engineering is at times a bit rough on this EP but the talent is there. But it was “Wanted Way” that caught my ear. I believe that with the right producer/engineer Empire Machines sound would sound more full and huge!

At present they have recently released the single “Scenes” on their Bandcamp page. “Scenes” has some dark undertones, electronic flourishes, airy vocals, minimalist choruses, and solid drum and bass that Robert Smith of The Cure would certainly approve of. But ultimately, Empire Machine is a group that makes a sound all their own. That’s why I love the freedom of this column. It gives me a chance to expose groups and artists that bring a fresh and unique perspective that you normally are not going to hear because they aren’t quite to the point of touring, even on a regional level.

Ultimately, give Empire Machine a chance and a listen. I hear something good in their future. I look forward to their first full album release in the summer of 2017.

Show them some love on their socials!

Facebook

Twitter

Bandcamp




About Hunter: Hunter is a freelance music writer that concentrates on finding outstanding, unsigned, unknown and under appreciated bands from around the world and unabashedly wields them onto the unsuspecting and the great unwashed. His work has appeared on music sites kilScene (NYC/Brooklyn), Mother Church Pew (NYC), and East of Eighth (Nashville). One of his writings has even been shared and press quoted by a Grammy Nominated artist (Do the Grammy's even matter anymore?!) After a particularly difficult and surreal week of work about five years ago Hunter decided to search the dark, dusty corners and obscure underbelly of the Internet. It was after hearing one of the same 30 songs that a so called "New Rock" radio station played yet again on his way home. That is what started him n his quixotic quest. Since then through many seasons of bleeding ears, anguish, and many neurotic episodes, he has learned well how to hone the power of the Internet in his search. Along with that, he has a vast array of concerts and music rouges throughout the US and around the world, and his goal is to find some of the most unique, fresh, and kick you in the ear hole artists and bands. You can follow him on Twitter or Facebook (if you can find him!) About Hunter: Hunter is a freelance music writer that concentrates on finding outstanding, unsigned, unknown and under appreciated bands from around the world and unabashedly wields them onto the unsuspecting and the great unwashed. His work has appeared on music sites kilScene (NYC/Brooklyn), Mother Church Pew (NYC), and East of Eighth (Nashville). One of his writings has even been shared and press quoted by a Grammy Nominated artist (Do the Grammy's even matter anymore?!) After a particularly difficult and surreal week of work about five years ago Hunter decided to search the dark, dusty corners and obscure underbelly of the Internet. It was after hearing one of the same 30 songs that a so called "New Rock" radio station played yet again on his way home. That is what started him n his quixotic quest. Since then through many seasons of bleeding ears, anguish, and many neurotic episodes, he has learned well how to hone the power of the Internet in his search. Along with that, he has a vast array of concerts and music rouges throughout the US and around the world, and his goal is to find some of the most unique, fresh, and kick you in the ear hole artists and bands. You can follow him on Twitter or Facebook (if you can find him!)

Maszer Seattle, WA 

Hello Glitterati, it’s been too long…I’ve missed you! Due to life, and a well-paying contract job, I had to step away for a bit—but, that doesn’t mean that I haven’t been searching out the music that you, the fans and listeners of Miss Brody crave! (Many thanks Miss B for letting me take a minor hiatus, by the way.)  

For those familiar with my articles, you know my tastes tend to wander all over the musical landscape. However, full disclosure at the gut level; I am generally an alternative hard guitar-fueled rock junkie. Oh, I love anything that catches my ear, but to me, there is nothing better than an in-your-face, soul-searing, volume to eleven, effects-laden, master guitar slinger that pours out his or her heart and soul via an amplified six-string. 

It was Saturday, Halloween night; I was 18 years old, on State St. Madison, Wisconsin. I don’t know how many people truly understand the depth of that last sentence. For those of you who don’t know, Madison, Wisconsin kind of has this reputation as a party city. And if there is ever a time that Madison, its residents, and the students of the local humongous University of Wisconsin gets a bit crazy and pulls out every party trick, it’s on Halloween. Back then, one of the best things was that there was always a national band brought in by some corporate sponsor for free amidst all that insanity. This particular year it was an up and coming group called The Rainmakers. 


I know what you the reader is thinking, “But Hunter, this is #UnsignedTuesday, this is supposed to be about unsigned and unknown groups!” And you are absolutely right. But guess what, I’m throwing you a curveball and introducing you to a group that, though having a modicum of success in the late 80’s, is presently unsigned. I thought that once a quarter or so add a little history lesson and highlight groups that were; underappreciated, quality bands, released recent music, and still put on a killer show! 

Initially formed as a bar band in 1983, the band eventually morphed into The Rainmakers combining the guitar power of famous Missourian Chuck Berry with the wit of fellow Missourian Mark Twain. As stated on their website they were; 

 “Heralded as “America’s Great Next Band” by Newsday, The Rainmakers were soon drenched in critical acclaim. Feature articles in Newsweek, Rolling Stone, CMJ, USA Today and others poured in singing the praises of this hard working Midwest band who provided new life to a traditional rock format.” 

If you saw The Rainmakers live back then, the sky was the limit. They were beloved in Europe, particularly in the Scandinavian markets and they kept climbing the bill festival after festival, year after year. But for some reason, and it confounds me personally to this day, they never seemed to get any traction here in the U.S. Being critical darlings, unfortunately, does not make you a success often times. Shortly after 1997 and their album Skin, The Rainmakers just seemed to go away... 

Lead Singer Bob Walkenhorst is a whirling dynamo of twangy Midwest charisma, wit, energy, and pure flair that when seeing them live, you cannot keep your eyes off of him both for his talent and for what he is going to do next. He is noted for his unique writing style; writing about life, politics, and social situations with a jaundiced eye and a rapier’s wit. And his bandmates; Jeff Porter on guitar, Rich Ruth on bass, and multiple band drummer and sound engineer extraordinaire Pat Tomek seriously if you want to hear a tight, talented, and excellent band that is consistently on top of their game, the guys in The Rainmakers are not only solid musicians, their amazing live.

He continued performing around Kansas City and on occasionally would do solo and duo tours in Europe and it was during a 2010 Norway tour that he realized that The Rainmakers music wasn’t forgotten. So with 2011 being the 25 year anniversary of The Rainmakers first release, in January most of the group reunited and recorded the album 25 On, and The Rainmakers were re­born. Since they have released another original album called Monster Movie. 

The Rainmakers continue to perform, particularly in the Kansas City & St Louis, MO area, throughout the Midwest, doing tours in Norway, and perform at festivals in Scandinavia.

Show them some love on their official site and Facebook!

About Hunter: Hunter is a freelance music writer that concentrates on finding outstanding, unsigned, unknown and under appreciated bands from around the world and unabashedly wields them onto the unsuspecting and the great unwashed. His work has appeared on music sites kilScene (NYC/Brooklyn), Mother Church Pew (NYC), and East of Eighth (Nashville). One of his writings has even been shared and press quoted by a Grammy Nominated artist (Do the Grammy's even matter anymore?!) After a particularly difficult and surreal week of work about five years ago Hunter decided to search the dark, dusty corners and obscure underbelly of the Internet. It was after hearing one of the same 30 songs that a so called "New Rock" radio station played yet again on his way home. That is what started him n his quixotic quest. Since then through many seasons of bleeding ears, anguish, and many neurotic episodes, he has learned well how to hone the power of the Internet in his search. Along with that, he has a vast array of concerts and music rouges throughout the US and around the world, and his goal is to find some of the most unique, fresh, and kick you in the ear hole artists and bands. You can follow him on Twitter or Facebook (if you can find him!) About Hunter: Hunter is a freelance music writer that concentrates on finding outstanding, unsigned, unknown and under appreciated bands from around the world and unabashedly wields them onto the unsuspecting and the great unwashed. His work has appeared on music sites kilScene (NYC/Brooklyn), Mother Church Pew (NYC), and East of Eighth (Nashville). One of his writings has even been shared and press quoted by a Grammy Nominated artist (Do the Grammy's even matter anymore?!) After a particularly difficult and surreal week of work about five years ago Hunter decided to search the dark, dusty corners and obscure underbelly of the Internet. It was after hearing one of the same 30 songs that a so called "New Rock" radio station played yet again on his way home. That is what started him n his quixotic quest. Since then through many seasons of bleeding ears, anguish, and many neurotic episodes, he has learned well how to hone the power of the Internet in his search. Along with that, he has a vast array of concerts and music rouges throughout the US and around the world, and his goal is to find some of the most unique, fresh, and kick you in the ear hole artists and bands. You can follow him on Twitter or Facebook (if you can find him!)

A quick question for all of you? Who would win in a fight; Lemmy or God? Trick question...Lemmy IS God! Though we have sadly lost one of our greatest legends of Rock & Roll just a few months back, without a doubt, Ian Fraser Kilmister AKA Lemmy will live on in the memories and hearts of rock fans well past his passing. If there was ever a personality that embodied the essence and spirit of the genre, Lemmy would most definitely end up at or near the top of most rockers list.

Now, how can you the fan, continue to experience and enjoy the music, spirit, and perhaps even the lifestyle of this thing we call Rock & Roll? By going to shows, buying the music, and spreading the word about all the great Rock & Roll groups out there that continues to entertain, innovate, and sweat for us fans. One of those bands that are grinding it out, creating exciting music, and gaining momentum are Nashville’s The Dead Deads.

Comprised of a pair of siblings and three childhood friends, they collectively came from a number of previous bands. It was during a one­night ladies jam night that they suddenly found themselves realizing that there was something special and electric from this one jam session. The Dead Deads are absolutely a breath of fresh air integrated with thunderous drums, screaming guitars, soaring harmonies, with a lead singer that can beautifully croon or roar, this depends on the disposition of the song.

2014’s Rainbeau is 11 tracks of stunning first album bliss, produced by Brian Carter at Paradox with highlight songs; “Lemonade” (Two years *prior* and better than Beyonce thank you very much), “Organ P”, “The Lonely Sound”, and “Sour Blooms” to name a few. At present, the group is working on their follow­up album. It will be produced by Helmet producer Page Hamilton who noticed the band during their supporting slot on the ShipRocked Cruise, and engineered by Toshi Kasai (Melvins) Dan Certa, and Keiffer Infantino, is out August 26th.

The Dead Deads had their first national tour with Halestorm in 2014 and continue to add slots including; the aforementioned ShipRocked cruise, at present on tour with Bush and Chevelle, and to circle to the start of this article­Motorhead’s Motorboat cruise (twice) with the likes of Motorhead, Slayer, Anthrax, Suicidal Tendencies, Huntress, and Crobot. You know what, when Lemmy wants you to perform with him two times, you wear that as a Rock & Roll badge of honor. Their star rising, The Dead Deads have a fantastic connection with their fans, known as the Dead Corps, a group that definitely support their favorite band and follow them everywhere.

With a sound that makes their hard rock and punk favorites accessible, yet injecting influences from many different genres and artists, The Dead Deads are immensely talented, exciting, and entertaining. With a second album coming out August 26th, keep an ear out for these rockers. I have a feeling that they will be coming to a venue near you soon.

Show them some love on their official site, Twitter and Facebook!

Situations that almost all individuals seem to have to navigate are the moments or time periods of stress, frustration, and the occasional crisis brought about by this thing called...Life. We all have ways of dealing with it from legal to the more than perhaps a step over the legal line. Some use food, others perhaps Television, and then there are those of us that use music. Whether just a momentary pick­me­up or perhaps cranking a song or ten at high volumes in your car, much like counting to ten but with thundering drums and reverb. Imagine though that you are the one that creates that stress relief, an entertainer or musician. You are the one up on stage, looking around from a spotlight and center stage watching everyone else being entertained, only to know that money is tight, the bills are piling up, and you're wondering what is going to happen when your food runs out on Tuesday and you may get paid on Friday? 

Sons of Strangers started as two friends meeting in a studio. Jon White and Mark Sullivan played music on and off for over a decade and had that fateful encounter in Mark's Ardmore,

OK studio in 2007. They began playing shortly afterward off and on, even after Mark had closed his studio and moved to Austin, TX. The next three years threw a lot of changes at the pair, forcing them to adapt to increasingly erratic schedules and long distances. They eventually reconnected in 2012 and recorded their first EP titled, Only Thieves. Jon fortuitously met long­time influence and inspiration Mike Herrera of MxPx and Tumbledown and over drinks, set­up a time to record their full­length album Bringing the Sun Up/Taking the Sun Down. Finished in July of 2013 and it was released in October of 2013. 

Their most recent release is The Sailor/The Sea and on initial listening may come off as an indie rock sound but there are more textures, shapes, and influences here. I've heard everything from moments of Bob Mould, the Smithereens, and even Lucero. The use of time and tempo changes, particularly prevalent on the song, "Fools Gold" is both impressive and refreshing. The lyrics are heartfelt and honest. The songs are strong and gutsy. This is definitely an album to give a listen. 

Though I normally write about unsigned bands, Sons of Strangers have recently signed with Wiretap Records, a solid LA outfit that is normally known for punk and other bands that they believe in. One of the fantastic things about this album is the fact that it is not over­produced or perfect. They are a bit on the raw side but the underlying talent is obvious. This album showed fine musicianship and I would definitely recommend keeping an ear out for Sons of Strangers.

Show these boys some love on their official site, Facebook and Twitter!

About Hunter: Hunter is a freelance music writer that concentrates on finding outstanding, unsigned, unknown and under appreciated bands from around the world and unabashedly wields them onto the unsuspecting and the great unwashed. His work has appeared on music sites kilScene (NYC/Brooklyn), Mother Church Pew (NYC), and East of Eighth (Nashville). One of his writings has even been shared and press quoted by a Grammy Nominated artist (Do the Grammy's even matter anymore?!) After a particularly difficult and surreal week of work about five years ago Hunter decided to search the dark, dusty corners and obscure underbelly of the Internet. It was after hearing one of the same 30 songs that a so called "New Rock" radio station played yet again on his way home. That is what started him n his quixotic quest. Since then through many seasons of bleeding ears, anguish, and many neurotic episodes, he has learned well how to hone the power of the Internet in his search. Along with that, he has a vast array of concerts and music rouges throughout the US and around the world, and his goal is to find some of the most unique, fresh, and kick you in the ear hole artists and bands. You can follow him on Twitter or Facebook (if you can find him!) About Hunter: Hunter is a freelance music writer that concentrates on finding outstanding, unsigned, unknown and under appreciated bands from around the world and unabashedly wields them onto the unsuspecting and the great unwashed. His work has appeared on music sites kilScene (NYC/Brooklyn), Mother Church Pew (NYC), and East of Eighth (Nashville). One of his writings has even been shared and press quoted by a Grammy Nominated artist (Do the Grammy's even matter anymore?!) After a particularly difficult and surreal week of work about five years ago Hunter decided to search the dark, dusty corners and obscure underbelly of the Internet. It was after hearing one of the same 30 songs that a so called "New Rock" radio station played yet again on his way home. That is what started him n his quixotic quest. Since then through many seasons of bleeding ears, anguish, and many neurotic episodes, he has learned well how to hone the power of the Internet in his search. Along with that, he has a vast array of concerts and music rouges throughout the US and around the world, and his goal is to find some of the most unique, fresh, and kick you in the ear hole artists and bands. You can follow him on Twitter or Facebook (if you can find him!)

On June 30, 2015, the traffic flowed on a moderately warm night like always, I imagine. People were possibly heading home after running errands. Picking up the kids from any number of tertiary activities, or perhaps coming home from dinner at a local restaurant. Just off of Meachem Rd in Racine, Wisconsin in a non­descript strip mall next to a pizza joint and across from a Laundromat sat JJ Mc Auliffe's Pub. On this, the last day of June I watched King Washington perform to a crowd of approximately 100 lucky patrons. Many were there by choice, fans from previous encounters. Others were there by fortunate happenstance, perhaps for a post­work drink to wind down. Once there they were mesmerized by the talent on stage that once realized, was something not often seen on a Tuesday, or any night of the week for that matter. 

The previous day I had an interview with them but, due to circumstances beyond my control at a previous site, the article, and interview I had written did not get published. This week's article is my opportunity to thank them for their time. 

King Washington is an unsigned band based out of Los Angeles that could be described as indie rock, alt folk rock, or plainly a great rock & roll band. Yet, there is so much astounding talent going on here. What really stands out are the two and three part harmonies, solid story- telling lyrics, and stellar guitar work of co­lead singer George Krikes. Founded by the other co- lead singer Tyson Kelly in 2006, the group is slowly building a rabid fan base one music residency at a time. The group harkens to a time of the singer­songwriter, with strong harmonies, subtle chord progressions, and a fresh contemporary feel. Krikes seemingly effortless virtuoso guitar talent flawlessly melds the lost art of the guitar solo, but in a way that does not seem ostentatious or vainglorious. The solos actually add a depth, flow, and substance to these songs. Kelly's strong songwriting emotionally draws in the listener. Bass player Billy Lee rounds out the number three in three­part­harmony and has added his musical skills to the songwriting bin. David Contreras is the newest member of the band hailing from Hamburg, Germany rounds out the rhythm section. 

As of this writing, King Washington has two full­length albums; The Gears and The Overload that were recorded at The Exchange Recording Complex in Milwaukee, WI and was produced by owner Grammy Award­winning Joe Puerta. A new album is in the works and nearly complete. These two fantastic albums sound amazing. There are many songs that must be pointed out; "Animal", "4th of July", "Don't Expect My Love", and three of their better known and fan favorites "Bawl & Change", "Old Highway 9", and "Land Without Age". 

Listening to their live performance, what stands out is that the music, melody, and harmonies filled every single inch of space. It was as if you were wrapped in a blanket of warm, emotive sound. I am not talking about volume here, for it was not too loud at all. Though the production value of their albums is fantastic, this is a band that is better off seen live. Some of the new songs that they presented that night live were; “Evelyn", "Superman", and "Hey Boy" a funky groove of a song which bassist Billy Lee composed and may be on this upcoming new album. 

King Washington has a unique way to reach out to new fans. They have had a number of residencies throughout the U.S., particularly in the Milwaukee and NYC areas, in which they perform a set show one night a week for a month at a chosen venue. Then on off days pick­up gigs in the surrounding region, often times coming back to smaller cities and venues not used to having such a quality and talented act performing in these middle size cities. By stretching out gigs months apart, it makes the return that much more special and fans bring more friends, and the fan base grows. It's quite brilliant really. With this new album the band promises to break new ground being released the summer of 2016, a fall tour, and an amazing live show, King Washington is a group that continues to grow in popularity, confidence, and hopefully a tour date soon near you. In a perfect world, it would be a band like King Washington that would on the radio or topping the charts and not the vacuous fluff that is assaulting our ears presently.

Show this up and coming band some love on their socials!

Official Site

Twitter

Facebook




About Hunter: Hunter is a freelance music writer that concentrates on finding outstanding, unsigned, unknown and under appreciated bands from around the world and unabashedly wields them onto the unsuspecting and the great unwashed. His work has appeared on music sites kilScene (NYC/Brooklyn), Mother Church Pew (NYC), and East of Eighth (Nashville). One of his writings has even been shared and press quoted by a Grammy Nominated artist (Do the Grammy's even matter anymore?!) After a particularly difficult and surreal week of work about five years ago Hunter decided to search the dark, dusty corners and obscure underbelly of the Internet. It was after hearing one of the same 30 songs that a so called "New Rock" radio station played yet again on his way home. That is what started him n his quixotic quest. Since then through many seasons of bleeding ears, anguish, and many neurotic episodes, he has learned well how to hone the power of the Internet in his search. Along with that, he has a vast array of concerts and music rouges throughout the US and around the world, and his goal is to find some of the most unique, fresh, and kick you in the ear hole artists and bands. You can follow him on Twitter or Facebook (if you can find him!) About Hunter: Hunter is a freelance music writer that concentrates on finding outstanding, unsigned, unknown and under appreciated bands from around the world and unabashedly wields them onto the unsuspecting and the great unwashed. His work has appeared on music sites kilScene (NYC/Brooklyn), Mother Church Pew (NYC), and East of Eighth (Nashville). One of his writings has even been shared and press quoted by a Grammy Nominated artist (Do the Grammy's even matter anymore?!) After a particularly difficult and surreal week of work about five years ago Hunter decided to search the dark, dusty corners and obscure underbelly of the Internet. It was after hearing one of the same 30 songs that a so called "New Rock" radio station played yet again on his way home. That is what started him n his quixotic quest. Since then through many seasons of bleeding ears, anguish, and many neurotic episodes, he has learned well how to hone the power of the Internet in his search. Along with that, he has a vast array of concerts and music rouges throughout the US and around the world, and his goal is to find some of the most unique, fresh, and kick you in the ear hole artists and bands. You can follow him on Twitter or Facebook (if you can find him!)

On June 30, 2015, the traffic flowed on a moderately warm night like always, I imagine. People were possibly heading home after running errands. Picking up the kids from any number of tertiary activities, or perhaps coming home from dinner at a local restaurant. Just off of Meachem Rd in Racine, Wisconsin in a non­descript strip mall next to a pizza joint and across from a Laundromat sat JJ Mc Auliffe's Pub. On this, the last day of June I watched King Washington perform to a crowd of approximately 100 lucky patrons. Many were there by choice, fans from previous encounters. Others were there by fortunate happenstance, perhaps for a post­work drink to wind down. Once there they were mesmerized by the talent on stage that once realized, was something not often seen on a Tuesday, or any night of the week for that matter. 

The previous day I had an interview with them but, due to circumstances beyond my control at a previous site, the article, and interview I had written did not get published. This week's article is my opportunity to thank them for their time. 

King Washington is an unsigned band based out of Los Angeles that could be described as indie rock, alt folk rock, or plainly a great rock & roll band. Yet, there is so much astounding talent going on here. What really stands out are the two and three part harmonies, solid story- telling lyrics, and stellar guitar work of co­lead singer George Krikes. Founded by the other co- lead singer Tyson Kelly in 2006, the group is slowly building a rabid fan base one music residency at a time. The group harkens to a time of the singer­songwriter, with strong harmonies, subtle chord progressions, and a fresh contemporary feel. Krikes seemingly effortless virtuoso guitar talent flawlessly melds the lost art of the guitar solo, but in a way that does not seem ostentatious or vainglorious. The solos actually add a depth, flow, and substance to these songs. Kelly's strong songwriting emotionally draws in the listener. Bass player Billy Lee rounds out the number three in three­part­harmony and has added his musical skills to the songwriting bin. David Contreras is the newest member of the band hailing from Hamburg, Germany rounds out the rhythm section. 

As of this writing, King Washington has two full­length albums; The Gears and The Overload that were recorded at The Exchange Recording Complex in Milwaukee, WI and was produced by owner Grammy Award­winning Joe Puerta. A new album is in the works and nearly complete. These two fantastic albums sound amazing. There are many songs that must be pointed out; "Animal", "4th of July", "Don't Expect My Love", and three of their better known and fan favorites "Bawl & Change", "Old Highway 9", and "Land Without Age". 

Listening to their live performance, what stands out is that the music, melody, and harmonies filled every single inch of space. It was as if you were wrapped in a blanket of warm, emotive sound. I am not talking about volume here, for it was not too loud at all. Though the production value of their albums is fantastic, this is a band that is better off seen live. Some of the new songs that they presented that night live were; “Evelyn", "Superman", and "Hey Boy" a funky groove of a song which bassist Billy Lee composed and may be on this upcoming new album. 

King Washington has a unique way to reach out to new fans. They have had a number of residencies throughout the U.S., particularly in the Milwaukee and NYC areas, in which they perform a set show one night a week for a month at a chosen venue. Then on off days pick­up gigs in the surrounding region, often times coming back to smaller cities and venues not used to having such a quality and talented act performing in these middle size cities. By stretching out gigs months apart, it makes the return that much more special and fans bring more friends, and the fan base grows. It's quite brilliant really. With this new album the band promises to break new ground being released the summer of 2016, a fall tour, and an amazing live show, King Washington is a group that continues to grow in popularity, confidence, and hopefully a tour date soon near you. In a perfect world, it would be a band like King Washington that would on the radio or topping the charts and not the vacuous fluff that is assaulting our ears presently.

Show this up and coming band some love on their socials!

Official Site

Twitter

Facebook




About Hunter: Hunter is a freelance music writer that concentrates on finding outstanding, unsigned, unknown and under appreciated bands from around the world and unabashedly wields them onto the unsuspecting and the great unwashed. His work has appeared on music sites kilScene (NYC/Brooklyn), Mother Church Pew (NYC), and East of Eighth (Nashville). One of his writings has even been shared and press quoted by a Grammy Nominated artist (Do the Grammy's even matter anymore?!) After a particularly difficult and surreal week of work about five years ago Hunter decided to search the dark, dusty corners and obscure underbelly of the Internet. It was after hearing one of the same 30 songs that a so called "New Rock" radio station played yet again on his way home. That is what started him n his quixotic quest. Since then through many seasons of bleeding ears, anguish, and many neurotic episodes, he has learned well how to hone the power of the Internet in his search. Along with that, he has a vast array of concerts and music rouges throughout the US and around the world, and his goal is to find some of the most unique, fresh, and kick you in the ear hole artists and bands. You can follow him on Twitter or Facebook (if you can find him!) About Hunter: Hunter is a freelance music writer that concentrates on finding outstanding, unsigned, unknown and under appreciated bands from around the world and unabashedly wields them onto the unsuspecting and the great unwashed. His work has appeared on music sites kilScene (NYC/Brooklyn), Mother Church Pew (NYC), and East of Eighth (Nashville). One of his writings has even been shared and press quoted by a Grammy Nominated artist (Do the Grammy's even matter anymore?!) After a particularly difficult and surreal week of work about five years ago Hunter decided to search the dark, dusty corners and obscure underbelly of the Internet. It was after hearing one of the same 30 songs that a so called "New Rock" radio station played yet again on his way home. That is what started him n his quixotic quest. Since then through many seasons of bleeding ears, anguish, and many neurotic episodes, he has learned well how to hone the power of the Internet in his search. Along with that, he has a vast array of concerts and music rouges throughout the US and around the world, and his goal is to find some of the most unique, fresh, and kick you in the ear hole artists and bands. You can follow him on Twitter or Facebook (if you can find him!)