Two months into the year and already enough incredible local music to fill an entire workout playlist with no repeats. At least the way I work out — scarcely and in short bursts. But hey, i’m trying my best, guys. give me some credit.

Reviews by Andy Scullin

Sam Torres - “Easy Crier”
The description of this song on Sam Torres’ BandCamp just says “a new improvisation for everyone who feels things,” so I had no idea what to expect, but it certainly wasn’t a 16 minute long transcendental soundscape. But, that is exactly what I got, and I loved it.

The Snorts - “FUCK IT UP”
This song blasts right in with a fervent punk-riff and steady driving drums, and just like most Snorts songs, does not let up. Witty lyrics, and a confident stride have become their signature and this song fit right in with a punky lock-step that will have you listening to this one on repeat.

The Jagaloons - “I Touch Myself”
You might think “there is no way that my favorite instrumental surf-rockers did a cover of the kitschy DiVinyls’ song. But, you’d be wrong. This lovely version of the early ‘90s favorite has a guitar replacing the lead vocals, but I guarantee you’ll be singing along to this lyric-less version anyway. Their heart-shaped vinyl release of the single was the icing on the cake.

Kat MacKenzie - “Stay”
Another haunting and ethereal song from Kat MacKenzie, who has yet to put anything out that I don’t keep on repeat. Along with the fantastic visuals in her videos, Kat is making a name for herself by releasing some of the most uniquely powerful music in the area, and this one is no exception.

Take Steps - “Everyone That Loves You (Now I Know)”
Pop-Punk is alive and well in the 518 and Take Steps are leading the pack. This song is the lead single off of their first full-length and it sets the tone in a major way. While this song may be named after another local band, Take Steps are standing on their own merits.

Four Dead Kings - “Stand Tall”
While, it is not easy to create original music that is firmly rooted in classic rock-n-roll. Four Dead Kings have managed that difficult feat. With punchy, uncomplicated riffs and sing-along choruses, Four Dead Kings have managed to create pure classic rock, while somehow sounding completely original. Tight grooves, and blazing guitar-solos make this one, ahem, stand tall.

Shannon Tehya - “Renegades”
This song hits hard. It has an elevated maturity that gives it a serious and spooky vibe, that lets the listener know that this one needs your full attention. The instrumentation has such an elegance. Paired with Tehya’s vocals, it creates an almost cinematic soundscape. In short, it’s fucking beautiful.

Rooftop Park - “Come and Go”
Leading the charge to keep acoustic music ‘cool’ in an ever-digital world, Rooftop Park has been consistent with his approach. That approach seems to be to simply write good songs that are just as impactful with just one guitar/one voice as they are with a full band. Melodic and light, “Come and Go” adds another trophy to Rooftop Park’s shelf of acoustic achievements.