Sometimes it seems like life gets in the way of the fun stuff! This is probably a record for lateness - 8 days into the month. But better late than never, I suppose! Here's June's music findings! Last month was pop-heavy so this month I tried to focus on more indie bands and folksy stuff. The downside of doing this is many of these songs are not on Spotify. I have provided Soundcloud links when possible. Hope you like. My apologies for being late, and I'll try to have July finished on schedule! To listen on Spotify, click HERE.
1. U R (The Young Wild Hearts) - Summer always makes me crave some good ol' rock and roll, and these guys provide it. Kind of has a punk edge that reminds me of The Clash.
2. Hunter (Du Blonde) - Sometimes it takes a good breakdown and re-invention to find yourself. Beth Jeans Houghton (of the Hooves of Destiny) goes solo, with a name change, and the result is this powerful kiss-off anthem. Viva Du Blonde!
3. Fond Farewell (Seth Avett and Jessica Lea Mayfield) - A mellower farewell from an Avett brother and Jessica Lea Mayfield, from their album of Elliot Smith songs.
4. Sunday Candy (Donnie Trumpet and the Social Experiment) - Complex, layered but sunny sounds from a mix of Chicago artists including Nico Segal (Donnie Trumpet), Chance the Rapper, and others. This was free on iTunes, last I checked, but not posted on Spotify. You can hear it on Souncloud HERE.
5. I'll Be Good to You (the Brothers Johnson) - Brother Louis E. Johnson died last month, so I wanted to include one of their songs. This is from their first album, and a personal fave for me. Not as funky as their cover of Shuggie Otis' "Strawberry Letter 23", but still a classic.
6. I Would Die 4 U (CHVRCHES) - Another great cover! I don't know if this will be on their new CD, but worth sharing. You can hear it on Soundcloud HERE. I think Prince would approve.
7. Text Me In the Morning (Neon Trees) - Neon Trees also has a new album coming out, but until then here is a sexy single from their last album.
8. Heart Keeps Dancing (James Gruntz) - Jazzy pop from Swiss singer. Again, not on Spotify but you can hear it on Soundcloud!
9. Can't Keep Checking My Phone (Unknown Mortal Orchestra) - Kinda organic, kinda disco toe-tappin' vibes from American/New Zealand trio.
10. The Sunshine of Your Youth (Cheerleader) - Soaring, driving-with-the-car-windows-open indie rock.
11. Middle of America (Will Hoge) - Country rock in the spirit of John Cougar Mellencamp. I almost held onto this until July since it was such a celebration of American life!
12. Summer of Love (Waxahatchee) - Wistful acoustic waltz from singer/songwriter Katie Crutchfield.
13. Desire (Years and Years) - Retro-90s club sounds from British electronic band.
14. Do It (Jupiter) - The glittery latest from disco-funk French duo.
15. Get It Right (Teedra Moses) - Strong and sultry R&B from New Orleans singer/songwriter
16. No Words (Erik Hassle) - Danceable pop from Swedish artist.
17. Cold Cold Man (Saint Motel) - We had them on last January's playlist, and now they're back with another exuberant single.
18. Still Gonna Drive You Home (the Strypes) - Irish band that plays in the style of some of the great 1960s pub rock bands returns, with a producing assist from rock legend Paul Weller. Can't wait for the new album!
So that's June! Hope everyone's summer is off to a great start. See you next month!
