“The 4th of July” by Kristian Montgomery and the Winterkill Band

"The 4th of July" by Kristian Montgomery and the Winterkill Band

Artist: Kristian Montgomery and the Winterkill Band

Song: The 4th of July

Genres: #alternativerock

Location: Boston, United States

Release date: August, 2023

Comment: If the name Kristian Montgomery and the Winterkill Band sounds familiar, that might be because almost exactly 3 years ago, I featured his single “Razor Wide Heart” on this website. “The 4th of July” is my favorite track from the band’s new album, Lower County Outlaw, and it showcases how Kristian and his bandmates keep getting better and better at what they do. The track is a delightful blend of country and rock that narrates a heart-warming love story.

From the very beginning, Kristian Montgomery’s masterful composition and emotional vocals take listeners on a captivating ride, mirroring the excitement and anticipation of that special moment when he and his wife, April, first connected. The lyrics beautifully capture the comfort and chemistry shared between the two, as if destiny had finally brought them together in the right place and time.

The song’s peak moment comes with a gripping guitar solo and a final chorus sung with an urgent passion that’s impossible to ignore. If you listen to this track and feel nothing at all, do you even truly feel alive?

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“Penance” by Nerima

"Penance" by Nerima

Artist: NERiMA

Song: Penance

Genres: #alternativerock #punkrock

Location: Toronto, Canada

Release date: May, 2023

Comment: I have written about the talented Toronto-based band Nerima twice before, but, after listening to their recent single “Penance”, I knew I had to do a third time.  It’s a stunning piece of music that explores the themes of guilt, regret and forgiveness, and I seriously think this is their more mature-sounding track.

The song starts with a gentle acoustic guitar and Alexi delicately singing the first few verses, but by the time the chorus starts, the full band has come in to increase the energy levels. The contrast between the verses and the chorus creates a dynamic and captivating sound that keeps you hooked until the end. The song also features some beautiful harmonies.

“Penance” by Nerima is a song that you should definitely listen to if you enjoy indie rock with a touch of punk-rock. It will make you feel something. Even happiness for witnessing the evolution of such a talented band.

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“Spanish Moss” by Against Me!

"Spanish Moss" by Against Me!

Artist: Against Me!

Song: Spanish Moss

Genres: #punkrock

Location: Florida, United States

Release date: June, 2010

Comment:  “Spanish Moss” by Against Me! is an energizing track from their 2010 album White Crosses. This punk rock anthem talks about the need to be who you are without feeling ashamed for it, which takes some extra meaning once you learn about the lead singer’s backstory, who back then was not known as Laura Jane Grace.

The music is catchy and powerful, with driving drums, soaring guitars and Laura Jane Grace’s passionate vocals. Given the fact that this great tune turned 13 last month, I thought it would be a good choice for #ThrowbackThursday.  So turn up the volume, sing along and let Spanish Moss take you on a journey. You won’t regret it.

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“Tonight, Tonight” by Smallpools & Caroline Kole

"Tonight, Tonight" by Smallpools & Caroline Kole

Artist: Smallpools & Caroline Kole

Song: Tonight, Tonight

Genres: #indierock #indiepop

Location: L.A & Nashville, United States

Release date: April, 2023

Comment: If you like covers that are not exact replicas of the original song, you’re in for a treat.

“Tonight, Tonight” is a classic alternative rock song by The Smashing Pumpkins, released in 1996 as part of their double album “Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness“. The song is an anthemic ode to hope and change, with lyrics that evoke a sense of urgency and possibility. It reminds us that we’re not alone, we’re not stuck, and we can make things happen.

Smallpools, featured here before for another outstanding cover they did, and Caroline Kole are two indie pop artists who have teamed up to deliver a fresh and fun cover of “Tonight, Tonight”. Smallpools is a Los Angeles-based band known for their catchy and upbeat songs such as “Dreaming” and “Million Bucks”. Caroline Kole is a Nashville-based singer-songwriter who has collaborated with artists such as Reba McEntire and Mr. Gwen Stefani Blake Shelton.

Their cover of Tonight, Tonight is a faithful homage to the original, but with a modern twist. They keep the same structure and melody of the song, but add their own flair with poppy synths, electric guitars, and harmonized vocals. They also strip down the song in an acoustic version that showcases their vocal talents and chemistry. Please enjoy “Tonight, Tonight” by Smallpools & Caroline Kole.

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“Don’t Let It Out” by The Sherlocks

"Don't Let It Out" by The Sherlocks

Artist: The Sherlocks

Song: Don’t Let It Out

Genres: #alternativerock

Influences: The Libertines, The Beatles, The Strokes

Location: Bolton upon Dearne, United Kingdom

Release date: March, 2023

Comment: The Sherlocks are a British indie rock band that have been making waves since their debut album in 2017. Their latest single, ‘Don’t Let It Out’, which will be part of their forthcoming new album,  ‘People Like Me & You’, set to be released on August 11th, is a catchy and energetic tune that showcases their knack for writing anthemic choruses and relatable lyrics.

The song is about the frustration of living a mundane and repetitive life, and the urge to break free from it. The singer urges the listener to not let out their emotions, because they will only make them feel worse. He also encourages them to take risks and live in the moment, because they might regret it later if they don’t.

The song has a driving rhythm section, with punchy drums and bass, and a melodic guitar riff that adds some flair. The vocals are passionate and expressive, delivering the message with conviction and charisma. The chorus is especially catchy, with a sing-along quality that makes you want to join in.

If you like anthemic rock songs, it doesn’t get any better than this.


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“Suit Of Armor” by Todd Morse

"Suit Of Armor" by Todd Morse

Artist: Todd Morse

Song: Suite Of Armor

Genres: #alternativerock

Location: Henderson, United States

Release date: May, 2023

CommentTodd Morse is a musician who has been in the punk rock scene for over 20 years. He has played in bands like H20, The Offspring, and Juliette Lewis‘ band Juliette & The Licks. His new song “Suit of Armor,” was inspired by Howard Stern, who said: “I had a feeling that my whole life I was sort of raised to not want too much emotionally and I wore this like suit of armor in my life, so I said, ‘This might be a song’.” Morse was moved by Stern’s story and decided to write a song about it, masterfully capturing the essence of resilience and vulnerability.

With its captivating melodies and evocative harmonies, “Suit of Armor” draws the listener in, immersing them in the raw vulnerability present in Morse’s performance. Musically, the song is reminiscent of 90s alternative rock, and I’m sure it will please your ears if you give it a chance. Check it out below.


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“Hey My Love” by Evermore

"Hey My Love" by Evermore

Artist: Evermore

Song: Hey My Love

Genres: #indierock

Location: Feilding, New Zealand

Release date: October, 2012

Comment: Today is #ThrowbackThursday, and we’re featuring Evermore’s song “Hey My Love.” For those who may not be familiar, Evermore was a New Zealand band that was relatively popular in their home country and Australia but not as well-known in Europe or America. They released their last album, Follow the Sun, in 2012. It was full of excellent tracks, including “Hey My Love,” a beautiful ballad that showcases the band’s ability to create emotional and heartfelt music. The song’s lyrics tell the story of longing and love, and the melody is both haunting and captivating. If you haven’t heard of Evermore before, “Hey My Love” is a great introduction to their music. It’s how I was introduced to their catalog. Give it a listen and let me know what you think!

Evermore consisted of three brothers: Jon, Peter, and Dann Hume. All three of them pursued their own careers after breaking up the band in 2014, mainly as songwriters and music producers. For example, Jon co-wrote the award-winning song “Hurtless,” performed by Dean Lewis. Evermore was a truly talented band.

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DMA’S – 21 Year Vacancy

"21 Year Vacancy" by DMA'S

Artist: DMA’S

Song: 21 Year Vacancy

Genres: #indierock #alternativerock

Location: Sydney, Australia

Release date: March, 2023

Influences: Oasis, The Stone Roses

Comment: “21 Year Vacancy” by DMA’S, the third single from their new album “How Many Dreams?”, is a slow-burning indie rock ballad that showcases the DMAs’ knack for crafting powerful and heartfelt tracks. As someone who reviewed their song “Viol” previously, I cannot say I’m surprised by the band’s songwriting talent and ability to create emotionally resonant tunes. The catchy melody, soaring chorus, and simple yet effective instrumentation create a lush soundscape that complements vocalist Tommy O’Dell’s tender and raw vocals.

The lyrics of “21 Year Vacancy” are full of regret and longing, as O’Dell reflects on a relationship that has ended. The honesty and relatability of the lyrics are sure to strike a chord with anyone who has experienced heartbreak.

If you’re looking for a song that will make you feel something, then “21 Year Vacancy” is the song for you. It’s a song that will break your heart, but it’s also a song that will give you hope.

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Fastball – Fire Escape

"Fire Escape" by Fastball

Artist: Fastball

Song: Fire Escape

Genres: #alternativerock

Location: Austin, Texas, United States

Release date: March, 1998

Comment: Without a doubt, “The Way” is the song Fastball are known for. It is certainly a great rock song and it was a huge megahit in 1998. However, as a #ThrowbackThursday entry, I wanted to put the spotlight on “Fire Escape”, a slightly lesser known single from the same masterful album: “All The Pain Money Can Buy”.

From the very first note, “Fire Escape” draws you in with its infectious energy and driving rhythm. The guitar riffs are crisp and clean, and the drums provide a steady beat that keeps you moving along. The song’s lyrics are insightful and introspective, touching on the challenges of finding one’s true identity and the struggle to be true to oneself in a world that often expects conformity. The music video, which you can watch below, is also hilarious.

Overall, “Fire Escape” is a standout track that showcases Fastball‘s unique style and talent. Let’s keep playing this gem of a song.

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Lost In Japan – Won’t Let You

"Won't Let You" by Lost In Japan

Artist: Lost In Japan

Song: Won’t Let You

Genres: #indierock #altrock

Location: London, Canada

Release date: April, 2023

Comment: Canadian band Lost In Japan -whose song “Lonely” was featured here two years ago-are back with a new single: “Won’t Let You”, which delves into the theme of identity and change. With an introspective tone, the band reveals their struggle to stay true to themselves while trying to please others.

Musically, the track features a compelling mix of guitar riffs and drum beats that give it an uplifting energy. It’s clear that the band poured their hearts into this song, especially since they’re parting ways with a key member after their last run of shows. “Won’t Let You” is a testament to the band’s ability to evolve while staying true to their sound, even during difficult times. Fans of indie rock will definitely enjoy this new release from Lost In Japan.

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