Browsing Tag

Alternative

Tempus Cucumis reached the epitome of cutting-edge with their prog-rock tour de force, The Axe Drops

Posted on 24 January 2025

Tempus Cucumis have sharpened their classically-trained chops once again for ‘The Axe Drops’, a six-minute tempestuous slice of prog-rock featuring the mesmerising jazz-tinged vocal talent of Anne-Lien. As an extended adaptation of the track that first appeared on their 2021 experimental demo album Mini Mouton—a prog soundtrack to the 1926 silent film Ménilmontant—the single transcends its cinematic roots and evolves into something far more colossal.

Crafted by the formidable duo Jeroen De Brauwer (guitars, drums, composition) and Lukas Huisman (keys, production), the single builds on their signature style of seamlessly balancing storm and stillness. The quiet, reflective interludes, where guitar and keys take centre stage, are fraught with tension, leaving you holding your breath for the monolithic crescendos of doom-laden riffs and symphonic flourishes.

These climaxes pulverise, especially when Anne-Lien’s ethereal vocals sweep in as an arresting juxtaposition to the hostility which breeds in the ferocity of the heavier sections which will leave fans of prog and post-rock slack-jawed. It’s the band’s deft ability to maintain captivation even in the stripped-back moments that make The Axe Drops a triumphant tour de force. The polished production ensures every note feels deliberate, every beat intentional, and every shift monumental.

As Tempus Cucumis work towards their eighth album, this single not only pays homage to their roots but also cements their status as titans of atmospheric innovation. The album artwork, a painting by Giorgi, is a fitting visual companion to a track that feels as vivid as it sounds.

Stream The Axe Drops on Spotify now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

heaven // alone – Exonerate: Seductively Raw Post-Hardcore

Posted on 24 January 2025
heaven // alone

With their latest single, ‘Exonerate,’ Perth’s heavy alt-rock outfit heaven // alone unleashed an unrelenting surge of sound that dares listeners to remain passive. Note by note, the track’s opening builds an insurmountable wall of distortion, enveloping audiences in an alchemised atmosphere that seduces with the provocative pulse of Deftones and aches with the raw anguish of post-hardcore.

The dynamic shifts between moments of melodic reprieve and chaotic crescendos elevate the emotional stakes. Teasingly placed between the blast beats and guttural outpours of rancour, the melodic breaks strike like a brief gasp of air before the sonic onslaught resumes, resulting in a visceral vortex of sound that grips listeners in its intensity.

heaven // alone’s technical precision and compositional ingenuity ensure that ‘Exonerate’ is more than just a hard-hitting track; it’s an invitation to revel in the catharsis of their deeply emotive and impeccably honed sound. The dualistic construction places your emotions on a tightrope, suspended in the tension between euphoria and despair.

With each release, the band’s fanbase grows, and tracks like ‘Exonerate’ solidify their trajectory toward becoming Perth’s premier pioneers of alternative hard rock.

Exonerate will be available to stream on all major platforms from January 25th. Find your preferred way to listen and connect with the artist via this link.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Roll up to the Big Top with Dirty Feetz’ carnivalesque take on Avant-Garde alt-rock absurdity ‘Tampone’

Posted on 23 January 2025

Hit play on Dirty Feetz’ seminal single, Tampone, and prepare for a tsunami of electrifying absurdity to knock you sideways. The track, pulled from their debut LP Flip Flops, is a sonic rebellion that obliterates conventions.

Dirty Feetz riff to their own rulebook-free rhythm, borrowing from Funk, Dub, Psychedelic Rock, and beyond to claim the title of this generation’s answer to Frank Zappa. The band rejects ego in favour of raw, liberated creativity, allowing the alchemy of their sound to transcend mere genre fusion. It’s impossible not to draw parallels to the zany carnivalesque energy of Mr Bungle, with the flamboyant flair running rampant through every corner of Tampone.

Dirty Feetz’s ethos is simple: they’re here to tickle synapses and get feet moving. Their tracks don’t just tell surreal stories; they take listeners on unexpected detours through a jungle of musical influences, embracing the strange and the silly along the way. Known for their energetic live shows complete with costumes and madcap antics, they invite you to leave the mundane behind and revel in their whirling dervish of sound.

Tampone is now available to stream on all major platforms, including Spotify, with the rest of the debut LP from Dirty Feetz.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Boy by As Rome Burns: A Defiant Punk-Laden Anthem Against Patriarchal Poison

Posted on 22 January 2025

While punk, as a concept, is becoming increasingly harder to define, there’s no denying that it runs thick in the veins of the debut single, Boy, from the London-based sharp-witted antagonists, As Rome Burns.

With an unmistakable cerebral echo of The Fall drifting around the crunched chords that pulsate feverish energy into the anthemic melting pot of punk, grunge and indie, the protestive exposition of patriarchal violence and how it poisons the well of modernity knows exactly what trigger points to press and hits them hard enough to bruise.

If you could imagine what the Offspring would sound like if Mark E Smith, Rage Against the Machine and IDLES had some creative input, you’ll come close to getting an idea of what As Rome Burns delivered with their explosively authentic first foray onto the airwaves.

Boy is so much more than a mash of influence and contrasting genres; the inaugural release became a conduit of the artist’s ethos to throw progressive punches and stand against the threat of societal regression while allowing their raw originated sound to ramp up the visceralism of the socially conscious messaging.

Stream the debut single from As Rome Burns on Spotify now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Find resolve through the rhythm and lyrical reflections in Flame’s seminal alt-indie release, ‘Heat’

Posted on 21 January 2025

The standout single ‘Heat’ from Flame’s alt-rock EP, Pride of the Lamb, which paints in colours from all across the alternative spectrum, ensues with a barrage of folkish rhythmic intensity before establishing a melody in the arcanely beguiling atmosphere.

The seraphic on the senses release transcends sound and moves into the remit of transformative meditation through the ethereal timbre of the lead vocals which refuse to bleed into the instrumentals in true shoegaze fashion as they relay mantric messages, guiding the listener towards transformation.

Flame lights fires through the trailblazing authenticity within their sonic signature, which pairs the textural motifs of grunge with the cathartic consolation of melodic rock as they build insurmountable walls of sound, brick by brick, note by note, while sharing a singular vision of leading the listener away from their ego.

Hit play and feel something primal within you wake in the presence of the Edinburgh-based alt-rock powerhouse who have exactly what it takes to stand at the vanguard of the post-shoegaze revolution in sound.

With one of the most distinct voices on the indie rock circuit, Flame is perceptibly in the minority of artists who favour their expression over commercial appeal, but there’s nothing within their debut EP that says they can’t have both; it’s pure evocative perfection.

Stream Heat as part of the 5-track EP on all major platforms, including Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Contrasts Collide: The Eclectic World of ‘Abyssinian’ by The Soft Parts

Posted on 20 January 2025

With abyssinian, the standout single from their sophomore album, The Soft Parts unfurled a texturally intricate sonic tableau which refuses to settle into predictability.

Opening with cinematic neo-classical grandeur, abyssinian invites listeners to stroll through the golden age of film scores, before the chill of avant-garde influences begins to weave through the organic warmth of the basslines. Playful polyphonic keys soon take centre stage, creating a delicate tension as each instrumental element works in purposeful juxtaposition to the next. When the neo-classical keys return with greater tenacity, they anchor the composition, ensuring it never spirals into abstraction despite its eclecticism.

The Soft Parts, the project of a Houston-based composer and sound artist, brings together a unique palette of influences spanning classical music, art rock, cocktail jazz, and lounge music. These influences shaped abyssinian into what could best be described as funk-inflected art pop, dipped in the moody magnetism of New Tango and Arab musical textures.

abyssinian pulls listeners into its orbit, making them feel the landscape of its creation as it swaggers, scintillates, and soothes in equal measure. If you want to stray away from sonic monotony, hit play.

Abyssinian was officially released as part of The Soft Parts’ sophomore LP, innuendo, on January 3rd; stream the single on all major platforms, including Spotify, now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Hypersonic Waves and Jazz Grooves Convene in 8udDha bl0od’s ‘1001’

Posted on 20 January 2025

With 1001, the peerless UK visionary 8udDha bl0od delivered an intergalactic masterstroke that pulls listeners into a 15-minute sonic vortex. This extended installation of experimental electronica demands attention with hypersonic waves of synths sculpting a pulsating, mind-melting backdrop. Amid the chaos, the echo-laden vocals, laced with a haunting familiarity reminiscent of Manson, act as the tether that keeps the sprawling soundscape grounded.

As the track unfurls, the frenetic energy begins to shift gears. Low-slung basslines slide into focus, bringing a melodic sensibility that pulses with a jazzy swagger. Percussive grooves weave rhythm into the arrangement, creating moments of respite before the sax flourishes transport the track deeper into jazz-fusion territory. Yet, no matter where the instrumentals wander, the scintillating sequences of synths stay on a loop, taking strategic pauses to allow the rhythm and melody to breathe, creating a dynamic interplay that keeps the release teetering on the edge of chaos and cohesion.

8udDha bl0od proves with 1001 that experimental doesn’t have to mean alienating. The track is as much a technical feat as it is a visceral experience, carefully constructed to push boundaries without losing its hold on the listener.

1001 is now available to stream on all major streaming platforms, including SoundCloud.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Breaking the Mould: An Interview with r/ginola on Bold Soundscapes and a New L

Posted on 18 January 2025
r/ginola

With an unmistakable knack for pushing boundaries and weaving intensity into every track, r/ginola is a genre-defying artist carving his own path from the unlikely backdrop of Connecticut. Having honed his craft through years of experimentation and evolution, his music is an unapologetic blend of moody cadences, raw emotion, and influences as diverse as shoegaze, nu-metal, and modern trap. In this candid interview, r/ginola opens up about his tumultuous artistic journey, the deeply personal themes behind his forthcoming 8-track LP, and his unrelenting commitment to authenticity in an industry often criticised for its uniformity. From his creative process to his take on vulnerability, this conversation offers a glimpse into the mind of an artist determined to leave a mark.

r/ginola, welcome to A&R Factory! It’s a pleasure to sit down with you and discuss the release of your upcoming LP. Before we get into the music, we’d love to get a better understanding of who you are as an artist. How did you get started and where has your music taken you so far?

I started about 4 years ago as more of a way to vent my feelings and frustrations that I had at the time. I showed friends the stuff I was making during a smoke sesh and they really encouraged me to get in a proper studio and take it seriously. That period was very dark but I’m glad I went through it. It allowed me to fully express things but also find myself as an artist and really made me open to new ideas or sounds.

Fast forward to now, after 3 rebrands in terms of name & genre, and over 100 songs, I feel I’ve really grown as an artist, and I am currently making my best stuff. The old stuff was cool (a lot of it is deleted) but the new stuff is basically a blend of what I was making previously.

What’s the most satisfying/challenging aspect of your craft?

Hmm.. the most satisfying to me is creating songs. I enjoy the writing bit, coming up with different flows and then putting it all together. The most challenging bit is mixing/mastering. I’m not the greatest at it but I normally try to tweak it to how I would like it and how it would sound in my car

Can you describe the unique elements that define your sound?

My sound to me is different from anything you hear currently. It’s hard nowadays for artists to really stand out because there is a lot of copy and paste but with my sound, I worked hard to make it different.

My delivery/cadence is very moody, and I think that comes from my time making shoegaze/nu-metal music. The lyrics are very sexual or aggressive at times, which is basically my usual nature.

What’s the story behind your 8-track release?

Whenever I drop a project, I always try to paint a picture. The picture is created by expressing everything I have dealt with in my life through relationships, friendships and miscellaneous things. This project, in particular, is about me falling in and out of love with an ex. I don’t wanna dive too deep into it, but you get the gist. I should also add that when it comes to the story/lyrics of each song, I leave it up to the listener to interpret it however they see fit.

How would you say the release reflects your identity as an artist?

This release is me. From the lyrics to the story to the energy to the sound, this project embodies everything I set out to be when I initially started.

How do you balance vulnerability and creativity?

When it comes to writing I pretty much lock myself in a certain period of time in my life and remember what it felt like. The more vulnerable I am the better the lyrics I believe. I try to keep it from sounding like I’m whining and keep it very fun so people are able to connect with it better. Sappy love songs just aren’t for me. I like to make mine sick and twisted, very dark at times.

You’ve cited influences ranging from Deftones and Static Dress to Yeat and Young Thug. How do these varied inspirations manifest in your music, and are there any nods to these artists on this record?

Jeez, I could talk about each of these artist for days! And there are loads more, LOADS! But these have been very prominent in my artistry. I’d say Deftones for sure has played the biggest role, Chino Moreno for me is god (I’m glazing heavily and I don’t care haha), I love that guy dearly! From songwriting to singing to energy to just about everything, he heavily influences my music. I love Static Dress for their visuals as well as their sick storylines, Oli is very cool!

Going by the standout single, sssnake, you’re clearly one to push the boundaries of sound design, where did that boldness as an artist come from?

I’ve always been bold. Maybe too bold at times but I like being this way. You can’t be afraid to take risks or try new things, you just gotta go for it and stick with it. Will it get you in trouble sometimes? Sure, but who cares! Be different, enjoy yourself!

How has your location shaped your artistic journey?

Umm I mean I feel like it kind of blessing but also a hindrance. I’m from Connecticut, so not too many people know of the state or where it is. There aren’t many artists or any artists for that matter that have made it out. But I also feel like that’s because everyone is trying to sound like everyone, and since Connecticut is unknown, no one wants to hear their story. They’d rather listen to someone from California, Florida or New York if the story is similar. For me, I’m in my own lane; there is no one making this kind of music here. And I love that!

What does 2025 have in store for you?

We will see together hahah I’m hoping to tick some boxes off the things I’ve been manifesting but I won’t be disappointed if things don’t go as planned. End goal is to just continue putting out great music and enjoy every second of it!

–

Stream r/ginola’s new 2025 LP on SoundCloud now.

Interview by Amelia Vandergast

Defy gravity with the interstellar psychedelia in Olek The Vyne’s debut alt-RnB single, Labels

Posted on 17 January 2025

Olek, The Vyne’s debut single, Labels, pulls you from the mundane and drops you into a vibe-soaked alternate dimension. Rooted in trippy alt-RnB yet transcending genre conventions, the track’s interstellar pulse melds with Olek’s lush, honeyed harmonies to create an intoxicating panorama of affectionate warmth.

It’s an invitation to surrender to a smooth, mellifluous flow capable of altering states of mind while reflecting on the lyrical underpinnings which advocate for embracing the messiness of relationship dynamics and finding peace in uncertainty.

The Houston-grown experimentalist, who is set to be known for pushing boundaries and colouring outside the lines, lets his mastery of intimate storytelling shine in Labels. Inspired by his personal journey and longing for meaningful connections, Olek crafts lyrics that cut to the emotional core while his reverberant vocals smooth over hypnotically rich instrumentals.

The track’s magnetic pull stems from the boldness of its experimental alt-RnB framework, which invites vulnerability and raw expression. As a flag planted firmly in the ground for his artistry, Labels is a testament to his ambition and the precision of his craft.

Labels will be available to stream on all major platforms, including SoundCloud, from January 17th.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Lauren Ash – Whiplash: A Relentless Assault of Punk Rock Ferocity

Posted on 15 January 2025

Lauren Ash’s transition from award-winning actress to punk rock powerhouse proves she’s more than adept at commanding the spotlight in any arena. With her latest single, Whiplash, Ash and her band crank the scuzz to its absolute peak, delivering a relentless assault of punk rock ferocity. The track combines riotous pop-punk hooks with the unrelenting pulse of pure rock energy, creating an anthemic, adrenaline-spiked experience.

Known for her sharp comedic timing in roles such as Dina Fox in Superstore and Scorpia in She-Ra and the Princesses of Power, Ash channels a new kind of intensity in Whiplash, shredding through punk conventions with unapologetic grit. Her raw vocal delivery pairs perfectly with a blistering arrangement of riffs and percussion that lands like a gut punch and resonates long after the track ends.

Since stepping into the music scene in 2023, Ash has made a monumental impact. Her debut single, Now I Know, hit #1 on the Canadian iTunes Rock Chart and climbed to #5 on the Billboard Alternative Digital Song Sales chart. Following a string of high-profile performances, including sets at Los Angeles’ iconic Whisky a Go Go and the Viper Room, Ash is gearing up to release her debut album in 2025.

Whiplash was officially released on January 13th; stream the single on Spotify now and discover more ways to connect with Lauren Ash via her website.

Review by Amelia Vandergast