This month has been scary busy, in all the best ways. I don’t know whether I’m coming or going lately, so I asked for a little help with October’s hot singles and the man, the myth, the legend andy scullin obliged without hesitation. Thank him for all the kind words below, and thank all the artists for the amazing tunes that inspired such words.
Reviews by Andy Scullin
Hayley Stafford - “All That’s Left”
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 - “Bones”
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.
zera bloom - “False Dichotomy”
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.
Watch Reggie Run - “My Only Friends the Skeletons”
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.
Sara Devoe - “On Death and Dying!”
While the theme is perhaps a little dark, the composition is so light and sweet, it feels like it is the “spoonful of sugar” that helps this particular medicine go down. The word “haunting” has come up with other songs on this list, but this song makes it worth saying again. Devoe takes you on such a journey in just two and a half minutes, that I’m sure a light cry, or at least a tear or two while listening is not uncommon. Or maybe it’s just me. Reflective and stunning, “On Death and Dying!” caught me by surprise.
Amanda Case - “Kissing Strangers”
“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.
Christian Evanko - “Changes”
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.
Shannon Tehya / Nocturnne - “Sue Me”
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.
The Lycan - “Dead Skin Pity Party”
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.
Toriendofstory - “In My Hand”
In what seems to be a theme this month, “In My Hand” is another beautifully sweet song that moves along like it is gliding across a spring meadow. The way the lush vocals blend and play with the percussion is incredible. They lift and fall so smoothly, and it is done with such skill and gravitas that it is impossible to not take attention.
LACE - “BREATHE AGAIN”
With an incredibly soulful voice, accompanied by unique, interesting and danceable beats, Lace has released a single that is impossible to put in any single category. The soundscape alone is enough to captivate, but when her singing enters the song, it takes the composition to a new level. Guaranteed to make you move, “Breathe Again,” is the latest in Lace’s ever-growing catalog of experimental, soulful songs.
Caity Gallagher - “Anybody Else”
Caity Gallagher continues to prove why she is regarded as one of the best singer-songwriters in the area with “Anybody Else,” a solid addition to her catalog. Upbeat and positive, this song expertly blends indie-pop, rock, and even some country to create a jaunty, confident tune. Gallagher’s voice somehow still manages to stand out as the star on this track, despite the incredible musicianship on display.