Category: reviews

Norman Lake brings to us a hopeless slow-burner from the sandy shores of Southern California. The track is reminiscent of an arid emotion stripped of semblance and woven together with an introspective narrative that we can all relate to at one time or another.

Every line of this haunting track seems as if it was pulled like a needle from the corpse of a dead porcupine.

The lyrics talk about the hardship of change. An evolutionary concept we all struggle with. And brings to light the transcendental truth we all seem to have a difficult time perceiving.

Norman Lake’s “Mother Mary” is about being afraid of the unknown. Yet each line brings to light a hopeless cry, and even when salvation descends upon us, we declare that we are still afraid.

Only a 4 track tape cassette and all analog gear were utilized in the recording.

The unbridled and raw sonic texture culminate in a tumultuous and warm emotion that seems to ripple through the body of the listener. And as we move through the rhythmic construct of reality, a funny thought penetrates the minds of those who peer into the darkness.

They see that they are like dust in the wind. Nothing but a fading star set amongst an expanding, and never-ending galaxy. Nothing more than a speck of dust suspended in a light beam.

“I hope this song brings company to those sitting with feelings that seem too insurmountable to conquer.” – Norman Lake

beipana’s new midnight project (entitled “Late Night Fog”) is a low fidelity masterpiece from the manic depths of the lucid state of subconscious bliss.

The steel guitar consumes the mind of the listener as it sways to and fro – just as the organ endlessly slumbers into catatonic convulsions of primitive ecstasy.

And as the human awakes from his long slumber, the apeman will once again remember a thing he forgot long ago. Something that he’ll never again forget to forget – until he forgets it again…

Indeed, beipana’s latest track “Late Night Fog” sounds like something Ry Cooder would have dreamt up in the middle of an existential vision – under the desolate wasteland of the arid desert moon.

In short, “Late Night Fog” is a minimalistic, yet laidback work of art fit for a peaceful springtime night in the midst of a pandemic that has brought the global system to its knees.

May this track bring you some much-needed comfort as the bacterial wave makes its way across the globe…

Novelty Island is the imaginative mind child of Tom McConnell – an avant-garde artist who was raised between Liverpool and Newcastle – but is now based out of London

Novelty Island’s sound is a mythical conglomeration of traditional songwriting, classic psychedelia, experimental electronica of a warped nature, and psychedelic surrealism.

“…Beyond the tranquil nature of Magdapio Falls, where the Saturn Alarms ring out through the night, there is a much mythicized location. A location so dangerous, so remote, so beyond comprehension – with an image so tarnished that each generation fears it more than the last…” – Tom McConnell

Tom’s new EP, “Welcome To Novelty Island” features the catatonic yet always eclectic Magdapio Falls, Saturn Alarms and Windows.

The live incarnation of Novelty Island also includes Tom’s other-half Frankie Tibbles on keys, David Dargahi on guitar and Harry Carter on the percussion end. 

Tom also creates radical visuals for the never-ending Instagram feed – instagram.com/_noveltyisland. 

Amidst these strange turbulent times of madness, it is important that we stick together, for all things pass. Spend some time in nature, and reflect upon the things in life that truly matter. Namely; family and friends, a safe home, a good sweet dog and naughty kitty cat, food, and clean water to drink. Nothing else really matters as a living and breathing human being.

The most brilliant minds in the world (I hope) are working on this and will find a solution.

In the future, let’s just be ready for things like this, and not react in such a volatile manner. The virus will take its course and the circle of life will continue on.

Meanwhile, in Portland, you may just encounter the mustachioed Brazilian spaghetti western rock and roller who goes by the name of Johnny Franco.

And to help you pass the time as you’re hunkered down, here is the nostalgic Johnny Franko and his radical new jam, “Tell Me Something”!

Recently moving from Sao Paulo, Johnny has developed a radicalized cult following in Portland for his intense street performances and timeless style. He’s a true rock and roll classic.

Johnny’s single “Tell Me Something” is a raucous and indelibly groovy tune with heavy doses of glowing nostalgia. It is a dandy of a jam that is glimmering with undertones of psychedelia.

The lyrics are an ambiguous nod to Johnny’s life on the streets in Portland and is an insightful commentary on the haves and the have nots of society. Truly an honest, yet relevant reflection of the modern-day culture in America.

May you all stay safe during these turbulent times of madness and confusion. The most important thing to remember is that we are all in this together. And there is no reason to panic. We will get through this.

Barland Garnett is the alter ego of Brooklyn-based experimental producer, Thomas Murphy.

His unique sound is stained by a combination of circuits, machines, and warped orchestral instruments.

Barland’s music was conceived from the fusion of primitive forest dawns and the creaks of abandoned factories in the late-night hours.

This particular track (Private Paradise) was manufactured from an Organelle, Arp 2600, Minimoog, MOOD, SH-101, Guitar skronk, and features the subtle magic of Sophie Chernin.

Barland Garnett’s track is a shoegaze slow-burner infused with lo-fi elements of dream pop, avant-garde indie, and a sensual sensation that transports one to a faraway beach, with a cloudy cocktail in hand.

The sound is a nostalgic throwback to a warm time of mystery and hopeless romance. A sleepy waltz into the hazy mist of a cloudy room. It’s quite simply, sublime.

Barland has recently embarked upon an infinite stream of singles. Soundscapes distilled from the urban Brooklyn air. Give him a follow on Instagram.