NIHILISTIC EASYRIDER
BAND DISCOVERED
It was a Run For Cover announcement through their social media platforms when I took notice of Nihilistic Easyrider – not so long ago in May 2025. Some days or weeks later I recognized that Nihilistic Easyrider is a sideproject of Narrow Head frontguy Jacob Duarte. I’ve never paid much attention to Narrow Head to be honest. My playlists featured a few singles, but they quickly vanished. However, this project has a very relaxed, laid-back, and enjoyable vibe. It reminds of bands and artists like Disheveled Cuss, Chastity or Phony.
CHARACTERISTICS THAT APPLY
easy listening | entertaining | alternative | laid-back
BESIDES THAT
I might be checking out a local record store to buy this one on vinyl.
HOW MUCH ART
BAND DISCOVERED
I became aware of How Much Art through an IG post from Maddi Nave, former guitarist for the band GEL. She posted some MSPAINT gig posters for their upcoming headline shows. I wanted to know more about the other bands that will be supporting them, but I couldn’t find anything about that one. Maddi revealed the secret a few days later, and now we are here. How Much Art is the new project from Have Heart/Fiddlehead singer Pat Flynn. The band lineup will be completed with Nave on guitar and background vocals, with Shawn Costa on drums, Adam Gonsalves on bass, Justin Mantell on synths, and Darin Thompson on guitar.
KILLER SONG MOMENTS
The blend of pop, synths, and groovy rock is excellent.
CHARACTERISTICS THAT APPLY
earcatching | groovy | synthy | heavy | playful
FLESH TAPE
BAND DISCOVERED
Discovered after the premiere for the song Petey at Small Albums, former music blog, in January 2025.
CHARACTERISTICS THAT APPLY
noisey | grungy | raw | melancholy
WISH
I’m really interested in this band’s future output, particularly its physical output. I hope they get to Europe someday.
AUNT KATRINA
BAND DISCOVERED
Aunt Katrina first caught my attention when I listened to the band Feeble Little Horse, which was the main project of guitarist/singer Ryan Walchonski. In the meantime, Walchonski left his main band and focused on his then side project. Aunt Katrina promptly released a new album in July 2025. In addition, the music has been sufficiently fueled by various indie music blogs.
CHARACTERISTICS THAT APPLY
quirky | melancholy | experimental | introverted
FORTITUDE VALLEY
BAND DISCOVERED
I discovered the band via Various Small Flames. A great musicblog with lots of different and alternative genres. It’s always worth a visit.
KILLER SONG MOMENT
This song is a purely alternative, nostalgic trip between bands like Belly, Camera Obscura or Best Coast. The groove and the melancholy harmony are simply wonderful.
FAVORITE LYRIC LINE
Why are you hiding? / Feel like I’m failing every test / Whatever happened to make you so impervious? / If I poured my heart out / Would you try to fill that space? / Or leave me empty? / Broken and empty?
CHARACTERISTICS THAT APPLY
melancholy | introverted | catchy | playful
SLAUGHTERHOUSE
BAND DISCOVERED
Every once in a while I save IG posts about music content. This time it was a reminder to read some music advice from Punknews.org’s music editor, Em Moore. Upon clicking and listening to a variety of new bands and artists, I stumbled upon the review of the Sick And Tired EP by the Californian band Slaughterhouse. After some more listens and watching a few videos, I’m really enjoying what the band‘ output is. The EP has been ordered, and the songs will be on my playlists from now on.
CHARACTERISTICS THAT APPLY
raw | rebellious | fast | directly | punky
