The Undecideds "Oldest Story in the World"

Well, CMT readers, I've said it before and I'll say it again: if social media has had one positive effect on the world, it's proven to us that there is a lot of young talent out there. I was introduced to the band: The Undecideds, an indie-rock female-fronted ensemble - and if it were not for their stylish music video showing their baby-faces, I would have assumed these musicians were much more seasoned. Their sound is rather sophisticated with relatable and poetic lyrics. The lead singer is cute-as-a-button, that is, if buttons could sing - and the gent (her brother) holds his own as well. "Oldest Story in the World" is a catchy tune and the video is entertaining and definitely worth the time.

 

Pernille Wensel "Burn"

A maxim that I've come to accept in the world is that: there are a lot of really talented young people who are not getting the attention they deserve. Pernille Wensel is one such gifted singer/songwriter, and the slick RnB/Pop style of her new track "Burn" is well worth your time. Wensel displays a range that is at the very least, impressive, the beat is extremely catchy with thumping drums full of breaks and dropouts which always keeps us guessing. Finally, the lyrics are beautifully aspirational, which is refreshing. So, two thumbs up go to this track, which you can hear on Spotify. 

The ATif "Alien Inn"

Well here's something exciting - an energetic rocking song with an equally exciting music video that features aliens, space, and spaceships... these are my love languages. The ATif, which seems to be the project of one musician (much like NIN and "bands" of the like) has an extensive discography on their website, is out with a new track "Alien Inn." According to the notes on the YT video, the song seems to be inspired by an actual UFO encounter (we really gotta get this guy in for an interview). 

It's a fast-paced number that features all the trappings of rock along with horns and other instrumental augments. The vocals are rapid-fire abstract poetry like "It don't mean one thing - just a little fun thing Won't you claim, you've figured it at all..." The ATif has certainly stumbled upon a genuineness that lands them in the novel category, which is much needed in today's musical landscape. 

Yona Marie "Take Me to the Moon"

I remember coming into adulthood in the late ''90s/early 2000's - not only did I grow up on pop RnB and Hip-Hop, but I also noticed the changing roles of women in society. If you're ever curious, you could look at the Barbie commercials with the slogan "it's a great time to be a girl." So when I stumbled across Yona Marie's track "Take Me to the Moon," and the description reads: "[a young woman] considers multiple devious approaches that will increase her net worth at the expense of the gentleman she's courting... Combining familiar 90s and early 2000s R&B vibes with sassy and fast-paced vocals" I was quickly intrigued. 

The song is super catchy, with a pulsating triplet feel and gritty quality. Yona's voice is alluring and has a sexy quality that I'm sure will play as well to everyone as it does to me. I enjoy the concept of the lyrics which go pretty deep, but it's a song that would play just as well as a dance-track. So, with a great low end, and a theme that is easily relatable, I imagine Ms. Marie doing quite well with this one. 

You can hear "Take Me to the Moon" on all the major places for music online. 

DECEMBER FADES "Sunrise"

Well, here's one that I really enjoyed, and it couldn't have come at a better time either - often I hear a lot of music while I'm doing this blog - and I've gotten many requests for reviews where I say to the artist: "you're obviously talented, you actually sound great... but there's nothing unique about your music..." 

Not at all the case with December Fades and the new single "Sunrise" (which is loveliness wrapped in a blanket). The creeping synth, the lo-fi drums, and the sweet, sweet, vocals are all pleasing. The biggest thing I like about this track though is that after one listen, I genuinely felt like I knew this guy singing - it was that intimate, which is pretty rare these days. So, Oct 9 is the release date for this song, don't miss it! In the meantime, you can check out his previous SC tracks here.

Pflames "High Anxiety"

I saw a meme the other day that read "You know who's going through a lot right now? ...Literally everyone, so be kind." And while I'm not one to give into social-media wisdom, it seems as though in the one case, at least, we ought to pay heed. So, it's no surprise that I caught wind of Rap/Hip-Hop artist Pflames's new track titled "High Anxiety." 

Lyrically, he captures the general mood of our society, right from the getgo where he confesses to "teeter-tottering on the edge." He then goes on to discuss subjects such as therapy and the death of his mother in a way that flows like a stream of consciousness. The beat has a funky quality complete with slap-bass, electric piano, and snappy snares, all of which appeals to my Gen-X ears. 

Overall Pflames is deep - his lyrics are thoughtful and the beat is super catchy with a lot of attention to detail. For fans of Baba, Living Legends, Del, or Prince Paul, I would give this track a hearty endorsement.