Better late than never, right? We’re more than ten days into december and I’m finally here to present some hot hot singles released in the month of November. think of it like a Christmas present that doesn’t show up at your house until January 5th. I’m just an incompetent santa. anyways… enjoy unwrapping some audio below.
Reviews by TJ Foster
Frank McGinnis - “The Entertainer”
The second single from Hayley Stafford is a sweet, stripped-down tune that seems to invoke an internal struggle. Does the protagonist believe that “everything feels fine,” or is there a deeper meaning? Check out “All That’s Left” from the enchanting Hayley Stafford and decide for yourself.
Sabrina Trueheart - “Alice in Videoland”
Always a favorite in the area, Sabrina Trueheart has again put out a single that skillfully rides the line between folk, americana, and rock. The lyrics and vocal work are masterful, and the accompanying guitars help add flavor to this great song.
Nocturnne - “Enough is Enough”
Bouncy and playful, this tune has such an interesting blend of styles. Self-described as “lucid eclectic trans pop” Zera Bloom has created a soulful mix so unique that “eclectic” is actually an understatement. Whatever inspirations Zera Bloom is pulling from, the results are catchy, sweet and beautiful.
Reality Distortion - “Rat Race”
Another great holiday tune from the always cool Watch Reggie Run. This Father/Son duo continue to put out sweet, family-friendly songs, and are a great live act to see around the Capital District as well. “My Only Friends the Skeletons” is an upbeat, yet spooky tale of what happens every Halloween. Sure to be on 518 Halloween playlists for years to come.
Margo Macero - “Mama, I’m Coming Home”
“Kissing Strangers" begins with the sound of a lone acoustic guitar, but very quickly wraps a tight groove around it, creating a song with such an attention to every detail. With an obvious pop-sensibility and rapier-sharp songwriting, Amanda Case has released another beautiful song that is helping to establish her as one of the area's top singer-songwriters.
LiketheAstronaut and B. Francis - “Driftwood & Jetsam”
As co-host of the popular Our Band Show, Evanko has helped dozens of bands in the area get exposure and high-quality audio/video of themselves. Now, after a six year hiatus, he is putting out music of his own. “Changes” is an incredibly adept composition. Light and melodious, it is a perfect song to capture Evanko's expertise with the guitar and especially with his voice.
Red Lennon - “Welcome Home”
Written and recorded basically on-the-fly, “Sue Me,” tells the unfortunately very true situation that recently happened to the artists involving a predatory scheme targeting local musicians. The song directly addresses the perpetrators of the scheme, who threatened to sue for defamation. It also has the artists directly reading the letter that was sent. It was a terrible thing these people did, but it resulted in this catchy and ultra-charming song, so there is that. (You can read the full story of what happened in the November issue of Metroland Now)
Young Culture - “broken paper plane”
The latest from Albany’s breakout stars, Young Culture, just reinforces why they are leading the charge in keeping pop-punk alive. Competent and slickly-produced, “broken paper plane” has everything needed to make this one an instant classic.
Shannon Tehya - “Soldier’s Last Goodbye”
The Lycan have put out some f*#king heavy music before, and “Dead Skin Pity Party” is no exception. With hints of thrash-music of yore, metal and grind-core, The Lycan have added their own spin and created a wall of brutality that hits like a tank loaded up with bricks and explosives. Incredible speed, dexterity and precision by every single member of the band. If “Dead Skin Pity Party” doesn’t leave you sweating and gasping for air, someone might want to check your pulse.