Rock
Fusing a powerful mix of post-punk/garage-rock bangers is Mellohoney, whose full, dynamic sound will leave you asking where the rest of the band is. This two-man show delivers an impressively layered wall of sound that will transport you to some noisy Toronto garage where the band got its start.
Not limited to the world of post-punk, Mellohoney is known to veer off into any number of musical realms, offering a diverse collection of influences. From rock and hip-hop to folk and reggae, this duo is determined to leave no musical stone unturned.
2024 will see the release of the band’s album, Genuine People, with their next single set to be released in January. In an ever-evolving and often explosive modern political climate, Mellohoney’s latest single, “Coward,” expresses “a desire for change and accountability.” The energetic punk/rock-inspired track was written with “a sense of frustration and disillusionment with the political system, particularly with politicians and the government.”
Indie Synth Pop
Veering a bit from their original dream pop band vision, The Dream Eaters have since morphed into a full-fledged video art project group, whose extensive music video catalog features darkly humorous and obscure themes set to catchy pop songs. Composed of vocalist Elizabeth LeBaron and singer-songwriter Jake Zavracky, the duo began working together in Brooklyn, NY.
Their latest single, “mood pills,” centers on the effects of psychiatric drugs, specifically how relationship dynamics are altered. For those unfamiliar with the term, “mood pills” refers to a broad category of drugs used to enhance mood, typically used to treat mental health disorders. The single explores the sexual dysfunction that often occurs in tandem with such drugs.
LeBaron herself opened up about her own struggle with depression and subsequent experiences taking such pills. To her, this “moody” synth-driven track feels like the color royal blue.
Pop
Canadian songwriter Tyler Del Pino’s knack for honest and soulful storytelling is in full effect with his latest release. His signature Canadiana-pop style is embellished with glistening melodies and timely themes. Backed by his new band, The Brasstronautz, Del Pino’s music oozes heart, leaving listeners with abundant optimism. Known for a blend of rock-pop, Americana, and East Coast folk-rock, the songwriter’s varied blend of sound is reminiscent of Mumford and Sons, James Taylor, and Strumbellas.
About his latest track, “The Solution,” — which is off of his new EP Out of a Clear Blue Sky — Del Pino says the inspiration “was born at a time when I found myself caught in a whirlwind of thought and contemplation, deeply concerned about the state of our world.” The poignant lyrics point to many of the troubles facing our world today, offering a hopeful perspective on the current state of things. A call to action full of exuberant horns and striking guitar riffs, Del Pino’s new track might just leave you feeling emboldened and ready to take action.
Synth Pop
Skillful collaborator and club DJ Hua Li 化力 has traveled the world, offering her vibrant presence and energetic sets for audiences all over. Currently the touring DJ for Inuk electro-pop throat singer, Riit, the artist’s work reflects both tenderness and courage, while celebrating those in-between spaces that lie somewhere in the middle. No stranger to the pull of opposing forces, Hua Li’s music often reflects the tension between themes of identity: mixed-race, bisexuality, and openly political versus vulnerability.
The artist’s latest track, “Cherrier,” is a coming of age song about growing up in the late 2010s in Plateau-Mont Royal, a Montreal neighborhood. Drifting back and forth in time between 2009 and 2019, the track narrates Hua Li’s experience with traumatic memories. Despite her best efforts to put them in her past, the career path of performer and DJ has pulled her back toward some of these unfavorable people and places. This new upbeat synth-pop track is her way of reclaiming power over these experiences.
About the release, she says, “Thankfully, since writing this song, I’ve been able to kiss again on Rue Cherrier and reclaim these parts of the city from a place of healing and celebration.”
Featured image: Mellohoney
