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Stockholm Syndrome is a mental exercise that challenges you to think critically. < Back Reviews on the Real: Stockholm Syndrome by Fishbone Nicole Brice Sep 25, 2025 Share Stockholm Syndrome is a mental exercise that challenges you to think critically. It's rare for an entire album to resonate with me as deeply as the latest release from Fishbone, titled Stockholm Syndrome . This masterfully crafted album is filled with profound truths that emerge in every song. Each track flows seamlessly into the next, and no two songs sound alike. The strength of this album lies in its lyrics, which convey wisdom to those who are awakened while also offering narratives that are accessible to the general audience. For those of us who truly understand, we recognize the significance of the messages on this album, and Fishbone provides the perfect soundtrack for our ongoing journey. Released June 20, 2025 Fishbone's latest album isn't just a collection of songs; it's a mental workout, challenging you to think critically in an age where mindless consumption is the norm. The band has never shied away from confronting uncomfortable truths, and this time they invite you to engage mentally—an idea that feels foreign in a culture hooked on passive scrolling and shallow perspectives. This fourth incarnation of the band includes: Angelo Moore (Vocals, Sax, Theremin, Percussion), Christopher Dowd (Vocals, Keyboards, Trombone), Tracey Singleton (guitar), Hassan Hurd (Drums), JS Williams (Trumpet, Vocals), and James Jones (Bass). Credit: Matt Dessner Thematically, the album explores the concept of psychological captivity, echoing the haunting complexity of Stockholm Syndrome, where the oppressed not only accept their chains but also defend their captors. It serves as a reminder that mental freedom begins with awareness, and Fishbone is here to shake things up. " Now that you've got a stake in the game. Now that you've got your own lane. On with the show, let's go... this is it! Now that you've got a full tank of gas. With a crew at your back when it's time to whoop ass. On with the show, let's go... this is it! " -Suckered by Sabotage Let’s roll with a detailed review of every track. Last Call in America (ft George Clinton) This is an upbeat tune that poses all the questions we have while announcing the "last call" for America. It’s truly remarkable! I found myself throwing my arms up and singing along while dancing in the laundry room to this one. "Last Call in America!" Who knew that doom and gloom could be so upbeat? I have to keep dancing until the world ends. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OxfTe-VPSRw Last Call in America Video Adolescent Regressive Behavior This track is high-energy and packed with the grooves that Fishbone is famous for—it's another solid addition to their repertoire. Dog Eat Dog Cheerful and engaging, yet it conveys a profound story. Pay attention to this one. Suckered by Sabotage I love everything about this song. The beginning has such a punk rock energy that I feel like bumping into people and slam dancing. Then, when it slows down and the groove takes over, it creates a laid-back vibe that's full of funk. And that chorus! It sneaks up on you, and before you know it, you'll be singing along. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dfmw2daTMpw Video for Suckered by Sabotage Secret Police Truth. This song embodies all truth: the guitar, the groove, the drums, and the message. Listen closely. The guitar work on this track is truly exquisite; it establishes the tone for the powerful message. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSC57A8bqpY Secret Police Lyric Video Gelato the Clown Guess what? Bullies always get what’s coming to them, and Fishbone wants you to know this. Amazing track. Why Do We Keep on Dying This is an outstanding reggae track with a powerful message. You’re going to love it! Hellhounds On My Trail It’s just fun ska with a great message. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zSkP77COU_Q Hellhounds on My Trail Video Racist Piece of Shit Try not to sing along to this one. I dare ya. I double dare ya. It’s just too damn catchy. Living On the Upside Down It’s got an ethereal 80s vibe with more truth. Dive in. All About Us The beginning has a great rockabilly vibe that makes you want to dance. When the horns start, be prepared to look for someone to dance with. Love is Love The most impactful message to conclude an album, especially in today's world. Experience it fully with headphones. I listened using my pink ones. What makes this album so important is its timing. In an era of political unrest, cultural upheaval, and increasing polarization, Fishbone serves up an urgent and unfiltered perspective rooted in decades of lived experience. This isn’t nostalgia – it’s resistance, revival, and a reckoning. To learn more about Fishbone: www.fishbone.net Fishbone Fishbone is Red Hot! Welcome to the official website for the legendary Ska-Punk band from California. Hailed as one of the greatest live bands of all time, Fishbone hasn't slept for 40 years and keeps getting better! www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Drop us a line at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

“Chin Up, Kid” is a refreshing take on introspection, combining the emotional intensity of alt-rock with the edginess of 90’s punk and grunge. < Back alltheprettythings: A Soul-Baring Alt-Rock Anthem Erica Machen Nov 7, 2023 Share “Chin Up, Kid” is a refreshing take on introspection, combining the emotional intensity of alt-rock with the edginess of 90’s punk and grunge. alltheprettythings is keen on changing the way you look at rock music. This music supergroup out of Wilmington, N.C., has combined musicians from bands you might know to make music you wouldn’t expect. alltheprettythings features current, previous, and touring members of Alesana , Emarosa , He Is Legend , and Chiodos , and their newest single “Chin Up, Kid” is a bad-ass anthem of deep introspection set to release next week. "Chin Up, Kid" is a dynamic blend of alt rock, punk, and hard rock that digs deep into the emotional struggles of the heart and brain. The song is a refreshing take on introspection, offering a unique perspective as it portrays a conversation between the heart and the mind, and the lyrics are a beacon of hope and encouragement for those who find themselves trapped in a cycle of self-doubt and overthinking. The band's lineup is brimming with talent, featuring (from L to R in the cover photo) Will Sowers on bass, Tristan Matthew on guitar, Logan Tabor on lead vocals, Worth Weaver as the band's producer and guitarist, and drummer Jeremy Bryan. They bring with them diverse experiences, melding together in creation of an incredible and eclectic mix. “Chin Up, Kid” is an emotionally charged yet uplifting song with the depth of emo rock highlighting the heart's desire to help the mind navigate the challenges of life. This concept comes through in the lyrics, where the heart urges the mind to call for support and not succumb to the weight of overthinking—something to which we all can relate. What sets "Chin Up, Kid" apart is its ability to combine the emotional intensity of alt rock with the edginess of '90’s punk and grunge. It's a song that resonates with those who appreciate both the emotional and the rebellious sides of music. With remarkable depth and emotional power to their music, alltheprettythings shouldn’t go overlooked—they are easily one of the most exciting bands producing music today. The band saw very warm reception with their single “Teenage Lines” , which showcases lead singer Logan Tabor’s otherworldly range. While each track released by alltheprettythings is impactful in its own way, “Chin Up, Kid” serves as a powerful introduction to any new listeners and a must-listen for fans of alt rock, punk, and hard rock. Mixed Alternative had the chance to rap with Logan Tabor, who brought insight into the song's inspiration and the band's creative process. Here’s some of our conversation with him. Logan Tabor - photo provided by artist MaM : Logan, thanks so much for chatting with me today! Let's dive in with the upcoming release of "Chin Up, Kid". When I listened, I thought it was heavy but in all the right ways. Could you share the inspiration and what fans can expect? LT : ‘Chin Up, Kid’ is an interesting one for me. I don’t usually write this way. I've explained it to my bandmates and others as conversation between your heart and brain. The line, ‘If you love me, why don't you call me?’ sets the tone for the entire song. It's like your heart is trying to reel back your brain from what it’s caused, saying, ‘If you're struggling, why don't you reach out to me, and I can help.’ It's honest and has an uplifting element. I see it as a kind of pep talk. MaM : The way you've described it really comes through in the song. This brings me to a question I always like to ask: What comes first, the chicken or the egg? In other words, what comes first for you in your writing process: lyrics or instrumentals? LT : That's a big question, and I appreciate the big question! It's a bit of a mixed bag. I've got these books filled with lyrics I've been writing for about 20 years. Sometimes it's a single line, other times it's a hook, a full verse, or an entire song. But which one is the chicken, and which one is the egg? MaM : Let's go with the lyrics are the chicken. (laughter) LT : We do need to establish that. So, if we consider lyrics as the chicken, technically, the chicken came first. But it's not until it meets the egg, the instrumentals, that they truly come to life. The lyrics nor the instrumentals mean much on their own. I have these lyrics sitting around, and I know I want to do something great with them, but I can't until I have the right musical instrumental ideas … [which] often come from someone other than me, but sometimes I'm the guy … It’s more like the chicken and the egg coming together to create a new velociraptor. (more laughter) MaM : I'm curious about your bandmates and how ATPT formed. Can you share the story of how the band came together? LT : I've known Worth for a while from sharing bills in Wilmington. We were both playing in different bands. I was in Demona Waits, and he was in He is Legend. We crossed paths quite a bit, both locally and on the road. Later on, we ended up working at the same place just outside of Wilmington, selling guitar and amp parts for an online manufacturer. That's where we really got to know each other beyond occasionally sharing a bill. After I moved away and came back, I heard some stuff Worth and Tristan had recorded. I had wanted to sing over something like that for years. I'd been missing that vibe. I didn't know Tristan at all, but Worth did. They met while moving gear into a studio they'd be working in. Jeremy, who drums for Alesana and is now our drummer as well, and Will Sowers, who played bass for Emarosa and is now our bassist, were connections of Tristan and Worth. It's all a bit serendipitous, really. MaM : Your music incorporates a unique blend of sounds. Could you share some of the artists or bands that have influenced your music? LT : Are you open to me asking you what you hear? Then I can respond to that? MaM : Let's go for it! I'll try not to offend. I'm a child of the grunge era and was all about grunge, wallet chains, and Wet Seal. When I heard your music, it brought back that vibe. I picked up hints of Blink 182 and Deftones. But the first thing that struck me was the Christian alt-rock era. It's the power and emotion in ATPT's music. LT : I appreciate the comparison to Christian rock. Growing up in a musical family, I have immense respect for that genre. I'm not offended, although some might be. I'm not afraid of such comparisons. I grew up in church, playing music, running sound, and watching my parents direct choirs and contemporary music groups. And you're absolutely right: There was a wave of heavy, Christian-based music in the early 2000s. It provided an outlet for all of us. I understand the energy and praise-and-worship buildup in that style of music. Apart from that, I grew up listening to Blink 182's "Take Off Your Pants and Jacket" and "Enema of the State" and I love the Deftones. So, you're right on the money there. Beyond these influences, I have a deep admiration for Chris Cornell. I probably love that guy more than most people. Now, this throwback might freak people out more than the Christian rock comparison, but Genesis’ Peter Gabriel. I discussed this recently with Worth [as] we watched old 1980’s Peter Gabriel live concerts. I don’t understand why our generation doesn't connect with his music as strongly as the people from his generation did. I love artists like him, because, even at 70 years old, he has a more expansive imagination than most 11-year-olds. That's what kept him at the forefront of great songwriting, live performance, pyrotechnics, and all the theatrical elements of a great show. He stays a child at heart, and that inspires me to maintain my imagination. … Apart from Peter Gabriel, Chris Cornell is a significant influence, and my exposure to Schuylar Croom from He is Legend, whom I grew up with too; I see him often. If I'm honest, I've listened to everything he's ever done, even before his band was called He is Legend. All of his work has inspired me. He's one of the best songwriters in the heavy music genre. He excels in the studio and in songwriting. He's a great performer, and his entire band is great. MaM : Beyond music, do you have any other passions or creative outlets that drive your artistic expression? LT : Yeah, I professionally edit video and film. That’s a massive creative outlet for me. I do everything from editing to project management. It combines creativity with a structured and logistical approach. Occasionally, I get the opportunity to score a short film. Music and movies create sort of a Venn diagram. On a more global scale, there are very few industries larger than music and movies, except life and health insurance. Those are the two biggest things in demand at all times, and there's a reason for it. It's because it helps people. I just enjoy being a part of those things. MaM : What can we expect from ATPT in the near future? LT : 'Chin Up, Kid' (currently available for pre-save by clicking the image below) is the big thing coming up on November 15. [Following that, we’ll release more songs] roughly every six weeks until the album is complete. Including 'Chin Up, Kid', that will be seven songs. We're also working on something I'm pretty excited about: a cover of Garbage's 'Special'. The unique part is that it fits so seamlessly with the rest of our original music. It feels like it meshes with everything else we're doing. At times, it doesn't even feel like a cover. I didn't write it, but it goes so well with all the other stuff we're doing, especially in the way we're doing it. It may as well just be a part of the album. It's right there on par, and Garbage is f**king sick, dude. MaM : Anything else you'd like people to know? LT : Well, we all need to acknowledge that aliens are real. I feel like we've taken steps in that direction over the past couple of months. The only other thing I'd add is that you should play ‘Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom’. It'll make you a happier person. We can link up online and have a great time playing the game with strangers. And there you have it, folks. The future looks bright for alltheprettythings as they continue to explore new creative avenues and connect with their audience. “Chin Up, Kid” releases November 15, 2023. While you wait for it, read more about alltheprettythings at either the links below! alltheprettythings | Official Website alltheprettythings | LinkTree Erica Machen is a beast when it comes to consuming, reviewing, and reviewing music. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

“Your Heart is an Empty Street” is a soul-stirring narrative unveiling a poignant expedition through pain on a journey of transformation and resilience. < Back Dark Miles Releases Debut Single, "Your Heart is an Empty Street" Erica Machen Jan 26, 2024 Share “Your Heart is an Empty Street” is a soul-stirring narrative unveiling a poignant expedition through pain on a journey of transformation and resilience. Music at its core is meant to transcend the boundaries of emotion and storytelling, and that’s exactly what the debut single from Portugal-based Dark Miles accomplishes. “Your Heart is an Empty Street” is a soul-stirring narrative set against a backdrop of sonic exploration unveiling a poignant expedition through pain on a journey of transformation and resilience. Accompanied by a gripping music video, “Your Heart is an Empty Street” gives the listener a glimpse of what’s to come in Miles’ upcoming debut album, "10 Miles into the Dark", which is slated for release in the coming months. Dark Miles is the solo project of Pete Miles, formerly Pedro Lima of MOSH. With “10 Miles into the Dark”, he has found an artistic shift. Influenced by the heavier spectrum of rock, Miles pays homage to iconic synth pop/rock sounds of the 80s and 90s, like Depeche Mode, David Bowie, and Iggy Pop, and echoes with references to grunge, goth rock, dark wave, and obscure avant-garde death metal. Miles skillfully employs these elements to complement the emotions found in his lyrics, and his deep and powerful vocals create an immersive auditory landscape mirroring the narrative. Credit: Photo provided by artist "Your Heart is an Empty Street" is full of lyrics expressing a harrowing journey towards self-liberation. Miles sings, "And there I go / to that empty street / with my open heart / as the others sleep," and paints a picture of solitude and vulnerability with a cold, damp floor. As the lyrics unfold, there's a sense of empowerment in facing turmoil head-on. The reoccurrence of not being alone and hearing a voice through the darkness signifies resilience in the face of adversity, and the fear and bleakness evoke feelings of strength that resonate with listeners on a profound level. The music video for "Your Heart is an Empty Street" is equally as impactful. As it unfolds into a cinematic thriller, it weaves a narrative that captures the essence of personal liberation after a tumultuous journey through physical and psychological abuse. As the video begins, the main character, portrayed with unruly dark hair and visible injuries, embarks on a road trip, where we see flashes of pills on a car seat that suggest a turbulent past. The anguished look she wears on her face hints at the scars left behind. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GI-hZGHrhes Set against a sea of red and black, the visuals work to intensify the emotional depth fueling Dark Miles' sound. Combined with an auditory experience, “Your Heart is an Empty Street” likens to the moment when stitches are removed, and the relief of pain intertwines with the echoes of agony. The connection surpasses surface level and illuminates the darkest corners of the soul. As the video concludes, the driver appears exasperated as though she’s just experienced a metaphorical death. Credit: Photo provided by artist "Your Heart is an Empty Street" successfully establishes itself in the vein of alternative/synth pop rock, and its fusion of poignant lyrics, haunting visuals, and retro sounds surely set the stage for an album that promises to be a cathartic journey through the soul. As the anticipation builds for "10 Miles into the Dark," Dark Miles emerges as a force to be reckoned with, as he continues crafting narratives that transcends the boundaries of time and genre. “Your Heart is an Empty Street” is currently available on all streaming platforms. And stay tuned for the release of “10 Miles into the Dark”! For more information on Dark Miles, visit him online at any of the below-listed links: Facebook @DarkMilesBand Instagram @DarkMilesBand YouTube @DarkMilesBand Bandcamp @MusicDarkMiles *cover photo provided by artist Erica Machen is a beast when it comes to consuming, writing about, and reviewing music. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Escape Your Fate blends alt-rock energy with undeniable conviction. < Back Reviews on the Real: Escape Your Fate by Caustic Waves Nicole Brice Sep 9, 2025 Share Escape Your Fate blends alt-rock energy with undeniable conviction. Released on September 5, 2025, ' Escape Your Fate ' makes a thunderous entrance, showcasing the strong alternative rock sound that Caustic Waves is becoming known for. This head-nodding track is filled with fuzzy guitars and a captivating groove. It’s truly impressive that Neil handles all the instruments and recordings himself for Caustic Waves . He is a remarkable Renaissance man . Released September 5, 2025 As a standout act, Caustic Waves is steadily building a reputation with their distinctive take on alternative rock , tailored for a new generation. They aren't just playing alternative rock; they are redefining it for an audience eager for something authentic. Neil’s voice, echoing shades of Brandon Boyd from Incubus , serves as the heartbeat of ' Escape Your Fate ,' providing the song with a timeless yet contemporary energy. One notable aspect of Neil’s compositions is that there is no build-up; each song kicks off with energy right from the start. The phrase “Trapped in a cage, there is no escape” resonates in my mind as I reflect on ' Escape Your Fate ' further. Around the 2:15 mark, an incredible guitar solo elevates the song to a new level, paving the way for Neil’s vocals to soar back in, continuing the strong lyrics and message. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z8M7NIuGTN0 The official video for 'Escape Your Fate' by Caustic Waves ' Escape Your Fate ' showcases Neil at his best, blending his Boyd-like vocal grit with Caustic Waves’ heavy alt-rock energy, all delivered with undeniable conviction. Stream ' Escape Your Fate ' now and get ready for the full EP release in October. I know we can't wait for that! To learn more about Caustic Waves: Spotify: Caustic Waves | Spotify Bandcamp: Music | Caustic Waves YouTube: CAUSTIC WAVES - YouTube Apple Music: ‎Caustic Waves - Apple Music www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach us at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

You’ll hear punk energy and hooks you can’t ignore! < Back Reviews on the Real: DC’s Burden’s Landing Bring Dreamy, Layered Vibes With New Releases Nicole Brice Jul 1, 2026 Share You’ll hear punk energy and hooks you can’t ignore! Burden’s Landing , an alt-rock band out of DC, is back with two new singles this month, “ Blank Page ” and “ Hallucination ”. Both are solid tracks that deserve your listening attention now. No, seriously, they do. How have I just now discovered this band? They’re really awesome, and I can’t wait to catch them live one day, but for now, I’ll enjoy their music with my favorite pair of pink headphones firmly on my ears. Burden’s Landing only started up in 2023 , but they’ve already been making noise all over the DC, Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania music scenes with their wild live shows and a sound that’s all over the map. You’ll hear punk energy, dreamy shoegaze, and hooks you can’t get out of your head. Credit: Burden's Landing The band first showed up in 2024 with their DIY EP, Could This Be a Portal? —a wild mix of grunge, shoegaze, indie rock, and punk that really set the tone for what they’re all about. That EP was big and ambitious, and since then, they’ve basically become a regular at clubs, DIY spots, and even record stores all over DC, Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania —pretty much anywhere that’ll let them turn things up loud. Credit: Alec Pugliese Let’s dive into these new tracks, shall we? Blank Page ' Blank Page ' kicks off with a thick, pulsing bassline and dreamy shoegaze vibes, layered under smooth vocals that pretty much melt you right into the groove. Then the tempo shifts, the drums hit hard, and honestly, this track just has everything. It’s all heart, all soul, no gimmicks—just pure music. If you’re into big, rich sounds, this one’s definitely up your alley. Hallucination ' Hallucination ' jumps right in with a steady punk groove and super-thick guitar and bass sounds. The vocals totally nail the vibe, and the energy just keeps building—this song never really lets you catch your breath. If you’re into punk, seriously, give this one a listen. Burden’s Landing’s new EP is coming out later this week, so keep an eye out—but in the meantime, go stream all their stuff wherever you listen to music. You can thank us later. *cover photo courtesy of Burden's Landing To learn more about Burden's Landing: Instagram Burden's Landing (@burdenslanding.mp3) • Instagram photos and videos Bandcamp 4 Songs | Burden's Landing Spotify Burden's Landing | Spotify Apple Music ‎Burden's Landing - Apple Music www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

‘Reach’ is a powerful exploration of longing and hope. < Back Reviews On the Real: Everfelt Soars with New Single ‘Reach’ Nicole Brice Aug 20, 2024 Share ‘Reach’ is a powerful exploration of longing and hope. In 2022, a Psychedelic Rock band called EverFelt came onto my radar. I could not discern any definitive influences or sounds after listening to their music for the first time. It was so different. It was unique. Fast-forward to 2024, and EverFelt is still making new music and driving forward. Every time I scroll my socials, I see at least one or two posts from EverFelt, either promoting a show or an upcoming release or just spreading the love for those in the industry who are taking notice. EverFelt is one of the hardest-working bands out there, and I feel this next EP, to be released in September, will finally get them the recognition they deserve. Credit: Facebook Vocalist Adam Steglich has said of EverFelt’s sound, “I feel we have evolved with the introduction of our new drummer. It’s given us the ability to have the timing to slow the songs down more and create that psychedelic vibe that we were going for in the beginning.” The band comprises well-seasoned musicians, and the current line-up has Adam Steglich on vocals, Corey Robinson on lead guitar, Jacob Crawford on rhythm guitar, Jason Hensgen on bass, and Ryan Smelcer as the drummer bringing it all together. EverFelt’s latest single, ‘ Reach ,’ was released on August 8, 2024. It hooks you from the first listen and does not let up for six minutes and twenty-three seconds. Having constructed an elaborate song full of groove and sludge, expect your head to nod as the song progresses slowly with a killer guitar part until Adam’s vocals start in, only to trap you at 2:30, where this insanely beautiful guitar solo begins. The best way to describe Adam Steglich’s vocals is that they are reminiscent of the iconic Peter Murphy from Bauhaus . He has excellent control over his voice, and I cannot recall anyone who sounds exactly like him. The Peter Murphy comparison is the best I can do. With lyrics exploring the themes of longing and hope, ‘ Reach ’ is a song that gets ingrained in your brain, and I genuinely enjoy this latest incarnation of EverFelt. Their sound wasn’t quite as polished when these guys started, but I’ve been fortunate to see them evolve. I think they have finally carved out a signature sound with all the new material set to release on September 7, 2024, so stay tuned. In the meantime, there is plenty to explore from EverFelt, but I feel the best is yet to come if they continue their current trajectory. The rest of 2024 is shaping up to be incredibly busy for the band, too, with numerous shows booked and a clear and concise vision of how they want to approach 2025 and beyond. Credit: Facebook “We hope people can relate to our music and love it like we do, but we don’t want you to only relate to the dark tone. No, we want to show you the door we’ve found, which is EverFelt”, says lead vocalist Adam Steglich. The production on ‘ Reach ’ is top-notch, and the mix sounds great. The song invites you to close your eyes and get lost in the sounds, offering a brief escape from reality. After reading this review, I invite you to do just that. ‘ Reach ’ is now streaming on all platforms. To learn more about EverFelt, just hit one of the links below. Spotify : EverFelt | Spotify Apple Music : ‎ ‎EverFelt - Apple Music Website : EverFelt Facebook : EverFelt | Facebook Instagram : EverFelt (@everfelt_music) • Instagram photos and videos www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

‘Rise Not Fall’ is an expertly crafted acoustic EP full of emotion. < Back Reviews on the Real: Rise Not Fall by Aaron J. Burke Nicole Brice Nov 13, 2024 Share ‘Rise Not Fall’ is an expertly crafted acoustic EP full of emotion. Irish singer / songwriter Aaron J. Burke has expertly crafted an acoustic EP that is a powerhouse of emotion, with each song delivering a potent punch. This EP is best experienced with headphones, allowing you to be fully immersed in the raw power and artistry of the music, inspiring you with every note. ‘ Rise Not Fall ’ captures the essence of resilience and self-reflection with the raw emotional lyrics that are deeply personal yet universally relatable. “The message I’d like people to come away with [from my music] is honestly, it’s okay to fall down in life. It’s okay to have bad days or to struggle mentally, if you know you’re not alone. There are people out there that love and care, so just reach out if you’re struggling. Help is just a click or phone call away.” Released on October 25, 2024, ‘ Rise Not Fall ’ does not disappoint from start to finish. Let’s get into the track listing, shall we? Click the picture to listen Rise Not Fall A hauntingly beautiful instrumental song full of intricate guitar work and soothing tones. I closed my eyes when listening to this track, and you should, too. Take it all in. “Originally, the instrumental was titled ‘Silence in the Chaos’, but during recording the EP, I changed the name to the title track. Honestly, the inspiration [behind the song] was I was just messing around on the guitar in 2016 and stumbled upon the riff, which is how I sometimes come up with guitar pieces that become songs.” Run For Cover There are no frills – just straight, enjoyable music. That’s the best way I can describe ‘Run for Cover’ by Aaron J. Burke. It’s melodic from start to finish, with excellent lyrics. Reviews on the Real: Run for Cover by Aaron J. Burke Faceless An open and honest letter to the world from Aaron’s eyes. Very potent. Phoenix ‘Phoenix’ is a hauntingly beautiful song reminiscent of tunes by XTC and REM. Aaron’s voice has such raw emotion that it’s peaceful and soothing. Reviews on the Real: Aaron J. Burke’s ‘Phoenix’ Burns Bright Hurray for Rock Bottom I started tearing up listening to this song. Maybe it’s the guitar work. Maybe it’s the lyrics. Either way, it is a powerful song. We have all been there – rock bottom, and if you haven’t, then count your blessings. I truly love the emotion throughout this track. Overall, ‘ Rise Not Fall ’ is a compelling showcase of Aaron J. Burke’s talent as a songwriter and musician. His music is strong and authentic because he speaks from his heart, and I admire that tremendously. If you would like to enjoy five songs full of meaning, then I recommend you listen to this newest EP release by Aaron J. Burke. His sincerity alone makes this collection of songs a spiritual experience. In an industry full of shallowness, Aaron’s music is a beacon of hope for those wanting to make a lasting impact through words. To learn more about Aaron J. Burke: Facebook Instagram www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

The latest from Vudu Sister leaves a memory as vivid as a whispered confession. < Back Reviews on the Real: Vudu Sister Nicole Brice Aug 20, 2025 Share The latest from Vudu Sister leaves a memory as vivid as a whispered confession. Today, I’m excited to share two songs from Vudu Sister , a gothic folk ensemble based in Providence, Rhode Island , with over two decades of performance experience. Led by French American songwriter Keith J.G. McCurdy , Vudu Sister's live sound features a rich arrangement of acoustic guitar, violin, cello, and vocals. Their music is inspired by European folk, 90s grunge, the works of H.P. Lovecraft , and the poetry and myths of classical antiquity. Vudu Sister is Keith J.G McCurdy (Guitar, lyrics, vocals), Isabel Castellvi (Cello), and Diane O'Connor (Violin). Credit: Vudu Sister The first song is titled ‘ Magic Powers ,’ released on July 8, 2025 . It begins with a haunting string arrangement, followed by some of the most soothing sounds I've heard in a long time. This romantic gothic waltz features a powerful chorus that is obsessive, and its arrangements linger in your mind long after it's finished. Released July 8, 2025 In my opinion, ' Magic Powers ' is a masterpiece, filled with conviction in both its lyrics and delivery. The raw quality of the song, without heavy production, makes it feel incredibly authentic—as if the artist is sitting right in front of me, expressing profound truths with nothing but strings, guitar, and voice. I highly recommend giving it a listen, and then you can thank me later. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SgTaVNsrCzg 'Magic Powers' LIVE "I wanted to write a song about falling desperately and painfully for an intoxicating, domineering matriarch; falling completely under her spell," says Vudu Sister songwriter Keith J.G McCurdy. Credit: Vudu Sister The second track, ‘ The Valley ’ (featuring Silver Rein ), was released on August 7, 2025 . This song blends Danny Elfman-inspired sounds with doom-metal string textures and Victorian gothic moods. It's both melancholy and surreal, and truly incredible. Released August 7, 2025 ‘ The Valley ’ strips the music down to its purest form, leaving nothing to hide behind. Every note, lyric, and breath resonates deeply, cutting straight to my heart. As the song ends, it leaves a memory as vivid as a whispered confession. Vudu Sister’s music is a mesmerizing blend of styles draped in soul-stirring melodies that intertwine artistry and emotion. Both tracks are from the band’s upcoming fifth album, titled Adynata , which is set to be released in March 2026 , so be sure to put them on your list of new music to check out now. To learn more about Vudu Sister: Spotify: Vudu Sister | Spotify Apple Music: ‎Vudu Sister - Apple Music Bandcamp: Music | Vudu Sister Facebook: Facebook Instagram: Instagram *All photos provided by Vudu Sister www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to us at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Echoes captures the energy of its influences while firmly standing in the present. < Back Reviews on the Real: Echoes by Caustic Waves Nicole Brice Oct 31, 2025 Share Echoes captures the energy of its influences while firmly standing in the present. Released on October 10, 2025 , Echoes is the first full-length album from Scotland's Caustic Waves . Before this, the band released the Full Circle EP in 2023 and several singles. This new album marks a significant turn for Caustic Waves , and I’m excited to see what 2026 has in store. While I refer to it as a "band," Caustic Waves is actually a one-man project helmed by the prolific musician Neil Thomas . The production and mixing on the album were done by Lewis Johns , a UK producer known for his work with Rolo Tommasi , Employed To Serve , Earthtone9 and loads of other great UK bands. Across its dynamic range—spanning intricate, polyrhythmic passages to soaring anthemic hooks— Echoes captures the energy of its influences while firmly standing in the present. It is a testament to Neil Thomas’ ability to balance intensity, melody, and emotion, resulting in a record that is both personal and powerful. Released October 10, 2025 Leading up to this release, we reviewed the singles ‘ Escape Your Fate ,’ ‘ Compromised ,’ ‘ Playing with Fire ,’ and ‘ Quicksand ’ in our online publication, so be sure to check out our thoughts on those tracks. For now, let’s dive into Echoes . Echoes consists of 11 songs and runs about 45 minutes , and is a very diverse offering of solid alternative rock. Each song is so unique and full of so many layers. If you have the time, just hit play and enjoy! We’ll break down each track for you. Echoes (Title Track) This song serves as a very strong opening to the album. It kicks off with an immediate, heavy bassline that seamlessly transitions into Neil’s vocals. The chorus is powerful and energetic, making it a solid rock track that really resonates. Artificial Lies This song has a thunderous opening with the bass and drums that will definitely get your head nodding. The energy continues to build until Neil sings, "Biting my tongue as you turn and walk away." This song reminds me of early Incubus, and I think it’s a great track. Escape Your Fate Read the review here . Quicksand Read the review here . Spotlights This song has a softer opening than the other songs, with a nice 90s-inspired alternative edge. It’s got this engaging groove that draws you in. You’ll enjoy this one. Playing with Fire Read the review here . Insignificance Man, I really really dig this track. It’s so different with a great chorus. I’m struggling to describe it for you all. Here’s the best description: Do you like 90s rock? This song is for you. Blessing in Disguise This song is an upbeat track full of great messages. Listen closely. Compromised Read the review here . Shadow of the Son This is the one song on this album that truly stands out, just because it's so different from the others. It’s got a great beat and is a fun song. Neon Claws This is the last song on Echoes and begins with a pop punk sort of riff, and then just starts jamming. Solid tune. Echoes is a heartfelt and well-crafted album that honors the past while establishing its own identity. This solid and engaging album is filled with nostalgia, channeling the sound and spirit of late 90s and early 2000s alternative rock and grunge, all while adding a fresh, modern edge. Go stream it today! To learn more about Caustic Waves: Facebook: Facebook Instagram: Instagram Bandcamp: Music | Caustic Waves YouTube: CAUSTIC WAVES - YouTube Spotify: Caustic Waves | Spotify Apple Music: ‎Caustic Waves - Apple Music www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Compromised is empowering and full of expressive lyrics. < Back Reviews on the Real: Compromised by Caustic Waves Nicole Brice Aug 1, 2025 Share Compromised is empowering and full of expressive lyrics. Out today is the latest release from Scotland’s Caustic Waves , titled ' Compromised ,' and I believe this is their best work yet. The song starts with a cool synth and then transitions into a lush early 2000s alternative sound. The chorus is powerful, and I think this song will resonate with many. It reminds me of a mix between Trapt and Incubus , with a sprinkle of Breaking Benjamin on top. Released August 1, 2025 ‘ Compromised ’ is the third single from the upcoming Caustic Waves album, titled Echoes . The lyrics reference the Milgram experiment and explore themes of AI-fueled paranoia. It stands out as one of the more progressive tracks on the album, showcasing complex interplay between the guitar and bass, along with numerous twists and turns throughout the song. The heavy breakdown at the end is impressive, and the mix for this track is tight. Neil's vocals really shine on this one; he sings with such conviction. In the chorus, Neil addresses the state of our world and reflects on how far people are willing to go to achieve their goals. These lyrics carry significant weight. As Neil says in the song, "Pay attention, and don’t be afraid of what you find when you look inside." Expressive lyrics such as Neil’s are a vital component of music because they give a voice to the emotions, thoughts, and experiences that often go unspoken in everyday life. Whether conveying pain, joy, rebellion, or love, expressive lyrics transform a song from mere sound into a powerful narrative that resonates on a personal level. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3hI-IxSlunw Official video for 'Compromised' by Caustic Waves Neil's refrain of "Don’t be afraid" empowers me and makes me feel ready to take on any challenge. Everything about this song is spectacular, and Neil speaks profound truths through his lyrics. Go stream ‘ Compromised ’ today on your favorite streaming platform. To learn more about Caustic Waves: Linktree: CAUSTIC WAVES | Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Last Giant's music is nostalgic and fresh < Back Last Giant: Captivating and Catchy Chris Pryor Jun 21, 2023 Share Last Giant's music is nostalgic and fresh In the vast world of music, it's always a pleasant surprise to come across a band that manages to impress with its unique style and sound. Last Giant is one such band that has caught my attention, and in this review, I'll be focusing on two standout songs from their latest album, "Monuments" released on June 9, 2023, by indie label Little One Ate the Big One and distributed via The Orchard. Released on June 9, 2023 via indie label Little One Ate the Big One Beginning in 2014 from the ashes of former Northwest indie-rock heavy-hitters System and Station (1998-2013), Last Giant is comprised of frontman RFK Heise (vocals, guitar, keys), Palmer Cloud (bass), and Matt Willes (drums). Last Giant has toured the U.S. extensively and has been featured in film and television, as well as shows including Mike Watt's "The Watt from Pedro" and Allen Epley's "Third Gear Scratch." Last Giant's video for "Captain My Captain" was the winner of MTV's indie video award with over 70,000 votes and they were a featured artist on MTV2. courtesy indie label Little One Ate the Big One With "Monuments," demoing started in early 2021 before Last Giant's film release, "Live from The Hallowed Halls." Shortly after, personal tragedy derailed the band from living in a consistent zip code. Band leader RFK Heise continued to write and hone songs, most of which would become Monuments while living throughout Northwest and Southern California. Lyrical inspiration was found in observation and introspection on not having a consistent home and being a stranger in a constant strange circumstance. First up for review is "Lost and Losing," a track that immediately captures your attention with its captivating guitar work in the intro. The vocals exude a smooth yet bluesy/folksy quality reminiscent of the legendary Bob Dylan. However, Last Giant infuses their music with a modern touch, resulting in a sound that is both nostalgic and fresh. "Lost and Losing" stands out as the perfect contrast to the rest of the album, and it's a fantastic choice for a closing track. The production is top-notch, allowing the listener to fully immerse themselves in the West Coast scene that Last Giant expertly captures. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6g5IV4647A Moving on to my personal favorite, "Soldiers." Right from the start, this song hits you with a heavy, crunching sound similar to the legendary Motley Crue. The riffs are undeniably catchy, while the driving drums keep the energy high throughout. The transition to the bridge and subsequent lead guitar solo is seamless and adds another layer of excitement to the track. As the song progresses, it momentarily slows down, building anticipation for a rockin' crescendo that doesn't disappoint. The structure of "Soldiers" is masterfully crafted, making it a perfect fit for modern rock radio. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sR0iBZ_0esU Last Giant's musicianship and production shine brightly throughout the entire album. The band has honed their style and sound, resulting in a cohesive body of work that showcases their talent and creativity. Last Giant is a well-rehearsed group of musicians who know how to captivate their audience. Based on their impressive performance on "Monuments," there's no doubt that Last Giant is a band destined to be seen and heard. Their ability to blend classic and modern rock influences sets them apart from the crowd, and I have no doubt that we'll be hearing even more from them in the future, so keep an ear out because they're ready to rock your world. To check out more from Last Giant, visit their website at www.LastGiantBand.com or hit one of the links below. Last Giant | Spotify ‎Last Giant on Apple Music Monuments | Last Giant (bandcamp.com) Christopher Pryor is a multi-talented Renaissance man who currently fronts the Louisiana-based band Chris Pryor & The Main Event. He loves to listen to new music and give his opinions. Got something you'd like him to listen to? Hit us up at the_nicolebrice@mixedaltmag.com or mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . *cover photo provided by indie label Little One Ate the Big One www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

‘These Chains’ is an amalgamation of everything good in music. < Back Breaking Free: A Review of ‘These Chains’ by Byron Daniel and the Five Dead Dogs Nicole Brice Jul 13, 2024 Share ‘These Chains’ is an amalgamation of everything good in music. New music always makes me happy, and today, I have a new track from Byron Daniel and The Five Dead Dogs , a band from Southeast Louisiana. ‘These Chains’ is an amalgamation of everything good in music. It’s got soul, fuzz, thundering bass, and a great groove. Reminds me of a modern incarnation of The Allman Brothers . It’s classic rock with a twist that gets your head nodding. “ Rural Infused Sweat Rock ” is how the band describes their music, and I have to say I agree. That is one of the most descriptive terms I have heard to describe music ever. When asked about the recording process for the new material, lead vox Byron Daniel said, “We recorded this song with Bryon Knight at Melancholy Mixing and Mastering . I played an acoustic show with Bryon, and he told me about his studio. Shortly after, I heard a single that Bryon had done for a band called She Might Be a Beast and really loved it. He was a pro and very easy to work with.” Byron Daniel and The Five Dead Dogs is comprised of Byron Daniel (Guitar/Vocals), Andy Ates (Guitar), Monroe White (Bass/Vocals), and Christian Colonna (Drums). ‘These Chains’ begins with a smooth and mellow vibe when Byron’s weathered and raspy vocals kick in. This man’s voice is full of so much soul and depth. Because of his vocal delivery, he is one of my favorite local frontmen, and even though I have not caught them live yet, I hope to in the future. With catchy lyrics, Byron said of the lyrical inspiration behind the song, “The inspiration comes from my upbringing and the people that have kind of come and gone out of my life. ‘These Chains’ is just about partying and using rock n’ roll to break free of small-town syndrome. Most of my writing is just me trying to accept who I am, what I’m doing, and what I’ve done.” One of the best parts of the song is the guitar tone on the solo from 2:15 to 2:47. Wow, it knocked me on my ass because it doesn’t come at you all at once; no, it builds to a powerful crescendo. ‘These Chains’ is an enjoyable track from start to finish, but I insist you listen to it loud in your car with the windows down while driving a long, windy country road. With plans to release a full album in the future, the band will be hitting the road in October to bring their sound to the masses, so keep your eyes and ears open. Click picture to listen to the new track “Definitely excited to be branching out and doing some shows in Baton Rouge and Lafayette. We spend most of our time in New Orleans or on the north shore, so we’re stoked to be seeing some new faces and converting some folks to the ways of Sweat Rock! We are looking to have our album ‘Armadillo Soup’ out by 2025. We will certainly be releasing a single or two before that.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gc2h-Ox2XXo ‘These Chains’ by Byron Daniel and the Five Dead Dogs is a powerful, emotionally charged track that showcases true musical craftsmanship and stays with you long after the first listen, so do yourself a favor and go stream it today. Upcoming Shows: Click picture for more info To learn more about Byron Daniel and the Five Dead Dogs, just hit one of the links below: www.bdandtfdd.com #RISR | Byron Daniel and The Five Dead Dogs Byron Daniel and The Five Dead Dogs are available to book for music clubs, festivals, events, parties, and acoustic shows. Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/ByronDMusic/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/bdandtfdd/ Spotify : https://open.spotify.com/artist/6NUAE8mTYyxW3FLMaKmfu7 Apple Music : https://music.apple.com/us/artist/byron-daniel-and-the-five-dead-dogs/1546819944 www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Kevin’s music is a hybrid of blues, rock, and pure Americana < Back Kevin Dorin: A Soulful Traveling Renaissance Man Nicole Brice & Chris Pryor Jun 2, 2023 Share Kevin’s music is a hybrid of blues, rock, and pure Americana Who is Kevin Dorin? That was the question that popped into our brains when he first came onto our radar. Although not well known here in the United States, Kevin has been making music for almost his entire life starting out in his home country of Canada as part of the rock band Bigger Fish Than Guns. Bigger Fish Than Guns was a band out of Calgary in the Canadian province of Alberta who saw great success in the late 2000s to early 2010s until they broke up in 2012. “We had a meteoric rise after recording our first EP, and our single “Texas T” won us $25,000 in a radio station contest in Calgary. The song was added to stations across Canada and the NE U.S. and charted the Top 30 alt rock up in the great white north. Sound-wise, we rode the coattails of bands like The Black Keys and regularly beat out Young the Giant for radio placements”, says Dorin. “We even got an awesome opening gig for AWOLNATION, and just as we were offered an opportunity to audition for a Live Nation booking agent, the band dissolved.” After the dissolution of Bigger Fish Than Guns, Dorin continued making music and working in the industry that shaped him. With a history rooted in Entertainment Business Management, thanks to his certification from The Metalworks Institute in Mississauga in Ontario, Canada, Kevin managed to make his way to the U.S. He currently lives in Idaho and consults for a venue in Sandpoint called The Hive. Being no stranger to the background workings of the biz, in the past Kevin managed the band Frankie McQueen and has had the opportunity to tour as a musician and as technical support for the indie band Sidney York. Photo provided by artist In addition to touring, making music, running things on the business side, and helping young artists with his songwriting competition, the Sandpoint Songwriting Competition , Dorin made a documentary in 2013 called What is Canadian Music? A true Renaissance man, Kevin Dorin is multi-talented and multi-faceted, and on April 7, 2023, he released a new single called “I Am Not Afraid” via all streaming platforms. The song is funky, soulful, and sounds like good, classic southern rock. The song fits our political landscape of today and we love the tones used with the music. The flow of the vocals is bluesy and merges well with the overall tone, which presents a powerful and evocative message about struggle, suffering, and resilience. The repetition of the phrase “I am not afraid” reinforces a sense of determination and courage in the face of adversity. The use of imagery like “body rotten bloody scene” and “sowing reaping feeding me” creates a dark and intense atmosphere that emphasizes the challenges faced today. The use of repetition and rhyming in the pre-chorus and chorus creates a strong sense of rhythm and adds emphasis to the message of the lyrics. Additionally, the use of metaphor like “the devil is the distance between our choices” adds depth and complexity to the song. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzN87MxSkZY Overall, the lyrics present a complex and nuanced exploration of the themes of struggle, love, and resilience, and according to Kevin, “It's a song, it's a mantra, it's the Zeitgeist written to be a tool to give people HOPE in the ongoing chaos that is our world. Risk four minutes and it may just make you feel better.” “I Am Not Afraid” is a song to take note of and we were so intrigued by Kevin’s history and backstory that we reached out to him to ask a few questions. Kevin Dorin’s talent is one to be heard and seen, so after you read this interview, we encourage you to go check out his entire back catalog. He is sure to impress you with his talent, energy, and passion, which comes through in his music. MaM : Kevin, thanks so much for taking the time to chat with us. We love your song "I Am Not Afraid.” It's soulful, it's funky, and it's pure southern soulful rock. What was the inspiration behind the subject matter and lyrical content? KD : The song was inspired seven years ago by immigrating to the U.S. from Canada. I couldn’t work until my green card was approved and so I found myself watching more American news than ever before. At that time, Canadian news had much more integrity—not so much so nowadays, though. [At the time], I wasn’t used to the sensationalism and fear mongering. I took the feeling of how the American media made me feel and turned it into the lyrics for this song. I’ve been performing it ever since in the U.S. whenever things get especially weird and scary here. My fans tell me that they use the ‘I Am Not Afraid’ mantra in their own lives, and first-time listeners as well as fans sing it with me when I play the song live. MaM : Did you record and produce the song yourself? The production sounds great. KD : The song was recorded over a period of years, and I never felt like it was quite right, so I sent it out to a friend and mentor I'd worked for, Producer Trey Mills. He put the finishing touches on it. I sat on that recording for another 18 months and finally the chaos of the world got so insane, I figured the world could use the song. Photo provided by artist MaM : When did you start playing music and what inspires you to create? KD : I'm 36 and I've been in the music business my whole adult life. I was in a successful Canadian Alt Rock band called Bigger Fish Than Guns in my early 20s, but just as that band was peaking, we broke up and I moved to Idaho to get married. Since moving to the U.S., I've been getting deep into Americana styles of music and playing hundreds of shows a year so I can develop my skills to entertain at the highest level. As far as inspiration is concerned, if I live a strong life and maximize the potential of every day, I am always inspired to create. The adventure of life and the dynamic of pushing through the highs and lows provides me with endless emotion and stories to draw from. MaM : Are you currently playing shows? If so, where do you showcase your talents? KD : I consult for a gorgeous world-class venue in Sandpoint, Idaho called The Hive and I'll be recording my next show June 3rd on video and high-quality audio. We will be releasing a live video recording from that set of ‘I Am Not Afraid’ in mid-June, so follow my YouTube channel! Then I plan to get back on the road and play as many dates in 2023 and 2024 as possible to share the positive messages in my new music with the world. Photo provided by artist MaM : I see you put out an album in 2010 and then another in 2018. Tell us a little more about your past endeavors. Why was there a gap in releases? KD : My last album ‘Invisible Lines’ is one of my proudest achievements. It was recorded as a one-take, one-two microphone-style project through a mostly vintage analog recording process. It was a bit of a departure from my alt rock roots after living in the U.S. for a while and absorbing Americana. The goal was to be able to capture moments in the recordings like the quality of the heroes of old. I've studied the recording processes of music quite deeply and the records that make the most impact in my life are always recorded by musicians who have worked hard to be able to track a record live off the floor. As far as why I leave so much time between releases, all my favorite artists usually only release major projects every four to six years. This seems to be a time-tested recipe to achieving quality control and amassing songs that are worthy of something notable that can really make an impression on people’s lives. Most great songs are timeless, so you should be able to sit on them for years until the time is right to respect the art and release it in a way that achieves the full potential of the songs. ‘I Am Not Afraid’ is a return to more of my alt rock sound developed in my band Bigger Fish Than Guns, and I have many more songs I'll be releasing as singles over the next 12 months that are a similar vibe. We just re-released our Bigger Fish Than Guns album ‘Through the Green Door’ after taking it off streaming services for about eight years. It's an awesome album. I’m excited for new people to discover it. MaM : Where do you see yourself headed in the future musically? KD : I've been storing a stack of songs over the last five years and working to become the best performer possible, so you'll be seeing a steady stream of music released from me and I'll be playing it all over North America. - To experience the music of Kevin Dorin, head on over to all of his social media pages and his YouTube. His music and talent are unmatched. Kevin Dorin | Facebook Kevin Dorin (@kevindorin) • Instagram photos and videos Kevin Dorin - YouTube Kevin Dorin | Spotify ‎Kevin Dorin on Apple Music www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

‘Impermanence’ has all the qualities of a great song. < Back Reviews on the Real: Cinder Embraces Fleeting Time in Haunting New Single ‘Impermanence’ Nicole Brice Apr 29, 2025 Share ‘Impermanence’ has all the qualities of a great song. Wow! Those were my first thoughts upon hearing the new single from the UK-based band Cinder . ‘ Impermanence ' is an exhilarating song that features fuzzy guitars, noise, grunge and embodies the essence of alternative and shoegaze music . It resonates with me on multiple levels, as it reminds me of some great bands I admired while growing up, such as Catherine Wheel and My Bloody Valentine . Cinder comprises Lewis on synth and lead vocals, Dan on lead and rhythm guitar, Cal on additional lead and rhythm guitar, and Zach on drums—the bass is played on the synth. Credit: Zainab Alhameed Cal primarily holds down the core rhythm guitar in this particular track while Dan takes the lead. Lewis, Dan, and Zach have been playing together since the summer of 2023 , while Cal joined the group around April 2022 . Just two months after coming together, the band had their first gig , quickly forming a strong bond as both a band and a group of friends . With a team of like-minded musicians, anything is possible, right? This camaraderie and unity have led to the release of ‘ Impermanence ’, which is a track we think you’ll absolutely love. It's refreshing to hear music like Cinder's in an industry oversaturated with conformity and lacking substance. This song is definitely not lacking substance. Released March 28, 2025 Released on March 28, 2025 , ‘ Impermanence ’ has all the qualities of a great song— edgy, artistic, loud, and simply enjoyable . Can we say we like a song because it's just plain good? No frills, just pure enjoyable music. We asked Cinder a few questions to better understand the band and their overall vibe. Check out our Q&A below and then go stream ‘ Impermanence ’ on your favorite streaming service. MaM : Who would you say are your biggest musical influences and why? Cinder : At this early stage of the band, the writing is very much spearheaded by Lewis and his backlog of tunes, with the rest of us adding our own parts in our own styles, refracted through the prism of Lewis's love of alt. rock, industrial, and shoegaze. Between the lot of us, we bring a load of different influences into the music. However, the bands/artists that inspire us the most in terms of how we amalgamate all of these influences are bands such as Nine Inch Nails , Deftones , My Bloody Valentine , Slowdive , and Sonic Youth . We love the textures and noise elements of shoegaze, especially live. The almost overwhelming volume acts as a kind of soothing agent - it's washing over you a therapeutic and comforting sort of sensory overload. As for production, Nine Inch Nails is a tremendous influence. Their records and individual tracks are often self-contained sonic worlds of their own. In the vein of post-rock , we love to reinterpret our instruments and their role in the track , experimenting with how an instrument is viewed and played traditionally and how we can use it to create different interesting sounds that communicate our musical points. Credit: Zainab Alhameed MaM : Give us a little backstory behind the origins of the new song? What inspired the lyrics? Cinder : The song begins with the narrator describing their bleak acceptance of death . Their fear of existentialism has led them to become paralyzed and isolated , but they view it more as recognizing the truth of the world, which others can’t see. Eventually, in a moment of revelation, they 'break' and convince themselves that the real answer to their fear is to control their own death . They’ll join everyone in the 'pursuit of happiness,' but their main goal is to burn themselves out and bring about their own end . And do so in an explosive and spectacular way. MaM : Are you currently working on anything else? Are there plans for an EP in the future? Cinder : We're currently working on the rest of our self-produced debut EP. We plan to release two more singles, ‘Breathing’ and ‘Sines’, before releasing the EP, Vows To Boscobel , towards the end of the summer. Lewis and a couple of other folks rent a unit in one of Manchester 's old mills, which has become our second home for rehearsing and recording. MaM : If you could describe your music for someone who has not heard it yet, what would you tell them? Cinder : That’s a difficult question to answer, but the word ‘uncompromising’ definitely comes to mind. I think we aim to do as much as we possibly can and attack each song from every angle, so to speak. Sonically, that comes across as loud and abrasive alt. rock interspersed with moments of delicate melodicism . Behind the scenes, however, it’s about recording five minutes of pure guitar feedback just to get the perfect five-second snippet to use in the song. We’ve reached a point creatively where we won’t release anything unless we know we’ll still love it years from now. ' Impermanence ' is out NOW, so go check it out, and stay tuned for more in the future from Cinder . To learn more about Cinder: Website: cindernoise Instagram: Cinder (@cindernoise) • Instagram photos and videos *Photos by Zainab Alhameed www.instagram.com/shotby.za/ www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Cinder’s new song blurs the lines between shoegaze, industrial, and grunge. < Back Reviews on the Real: Breathing by Cinder Nicole Brice Jul 18, 2025 Share Cinder’s new song blurs the lines between shoegaze, industrial, and grunge. UK-based band Cinder has returned with their latest release, ' Breathing ,' a magnificent song filled with fuzz and distortion that is sure to captivate you. This track creates an alternate universe where, if Robert Smith had founded Deftones , the result might resemble this sound. Still, in all honesty, it reminds me more of what might happen if Catherine Wheel and My Bloody Valentine had a musical collaboration, with a touch of Nine Inch Nails added to the mix. Truly, Cinder’s new song blurs the lines between shoegaze , industrial , and grunge . Released July 16, 2025 ‘ Breathing ’ is a slower track, but everything about it resonates. The spoken word section, which begins around 2:07, enhances the melancholic vibe before the song transitions into a glorious, fuzz-filled guitar solo. It then returns to the chorus. As I listen to ' Breathing ,' I can envision a backdrop behind the band performing the song, complete with psychedelic visuals to accompany it. This is one song you need to check out now—it's that good. In keeping with the spirit of the band's previous release, ‘ Impermanence ,’ this new track showcases Lewis's talents as he expertly handles the vocals, synths, and overall production, creating an immersive soundscape. Cal plays lead guitar on this track, except for the outro, where both Daniel and Cal play rhythm guitar, with Zach on drums. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0BfoQmWHk64 'Breathing' by Cinder ‘ Breathing ’ is a living entity you need to enjoy with headphones, so stream it now . To learn more about Cinder: Instagram Cinder (@cindernoise) • Instagram photos and videos Website: cindernoise www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Hawthorne Oachs brings deep awareness to everyday life < Back Hawthorne Oachs: A Free-Spirited Young Artist Full of Beautiful Harmonies Nicole Brice & Chris Pryor May 30, 2023 Share Hawthorne Oachs brings deep awareness to everyday life Sometimes, a musician comes onto the scene and just blows us away to where we are left virtually speechless. The next musician we are bringing to you has done just that and her name is Hawthorne Oachs. At the young age of 12, this spirited artist wrote, produced, and released her first single, “My Lullaby,” which was released in November of 2021. At 14 years old, Hawthorne has many talents and is not only a musical artist but also a digital artist and award-nominated actress with Z-Fest 2023 as a Best Child Actress Nominee. She has created the cover art for all her music released thus far and is frequently known to share her artistic creations on social media. With song lyrics written from the perspective of a young teenage girl, Hawthorne has a mature-sounding voice that is both powerful and contains soulful evoking memories of LeAnn Rimes when she first broke on the scene in the mid-90s. Photo provided by artist An incredible storyteller drawing inspiration from everyday life, Hawthorne’s songs are often about personal experiences with her relatable and thought-provoking lyrics. In addition to her music and art, Oachs is an advocate for mental health awareness, where she has spoken publicly about her own struggles with anxiety and depression. She hopes to use her platform to help others who are struggling with mental illness and wants to be a role model for young people everywhere. If you’re looking for music that is both powerful and meaningful, then we highly recommend checking out the music of Hawthorne Oachs. In fact, we listened to her entire catalog and could not find a single song we did not like. Her music is that good. Oach’s latest single, which released on April 21, 2023, is titled “A Single Flower.” It is a hauntingly beautiful arrangement full of abundant wisdom for a girl so young. Listening to it gave us the chills, and when that happens, you know something is resonating with your own energy. It has excellent production value and a good use of effects, and the harmony flows perfectly with the medley of the music. We cannot recommend it enough. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YIGEX0gNN4I Set to release another new single in June, Hawthorne is a talented artist with a bright future ahead of her, so stay tuned! We recently had the opportunity to ask her a few questions, so check out her responses below and then go listen to her beautiful catalog of tunes. She is sure to become a household name in the years to come. MaM : Hawthorne, thanks so much for taking time to talk with us. Your vocals are so melodic, soulful, and strong for such a young lady. Who are your vocal inspirations and why? HaO : Thank you so much for the kind words, Nicole! Some specific singers that I really respect are my mom, Mafumafu, and Hayley Williams of Paramore. My mom is a talented singer and has been such a fantastic mentor throughout my life. I know I would have made my way to music eventually if I was born with different parents, but my mom and dad have given me the gift of a life immersed in music, and I wouldn't have had it any other way. Mafumafu is a very emotional and passionate singer and I connect with that. I find a lot of joy listening to his work, and I found his music at the height of the pandemic, so his songs comforted me. I’m massively grateful for that in ways I’m not sure I can clearly articulate. Because of my mom, I’ve been listening to Paramore since before I could understand the meaning of the lyrics, so their music has always held a special place in my heart. They were my first concert when the ‘After Laughter’ album came out! Hayley has such a wonderful, powerful voice and I really love listening to both her solo work and Paramore’s whole discography. Their new album is a such a banger, too! Zac is a superb drummer and Taylor is a stellar guitarist who also has curly hair, like me! Listening to these people play their hearts out really inspires me to keep learning, growing, and improving as I turbulently make my way through these adolescent voice-changing years. Photo provided by artist MaM : When did you realize you wanted to create music and why? HaO : I’ve always been way into music starting from when I was really young. I'd sort all of the CDs and records in my house, taking them off the shelf, looking at the album art, listening, then putting them back. I also used to run around the house playing my little pink acoustic guitar, singing at the top of my lungs, making up songs. The piano was a safe place to play and decompress from the events of the day. I still do that. I was around [five years old] when I started taking formal lessons for both piano and guitar, and I immediately wanted to quit because if I didn't get something right on the first try, I would get discouraged. I'm also tenacious and headstrong, which I’m grateful for, because I stuck with those lessons and now piano and guitar are my favorite songwriting tools. During the pandemic, most of us turned to art to consume and keep us soothed and entertained. In the beginning, I ended up writing a considerable [number] of songs cathartically. Through that catharsis, I developed a love for songwriting and a realization that I was fastened to music for life. Photo provided by artist MaM : Who are your musical influences for your sound? HaO : Because I've grown up in a musical household, I've listened to quite possibly every genre that exists. As a result of that immersive education, I have an extensive collection of favorites that I've held closely in my heart. I can usually find something to like in whatever I'm listening to, and every day I'm discovering new artists that I love. For example, I've been listening to Minami, Mitski, and Blü Eyes lately. Right now, the songs I have on repeat obsessively are ‘Thick Skull’ and ‘Running Out Of Time’ by Paramore. I think inevitably over time, everything you've ever listened to influences your own sound. Experimenting and figuring out who I am as a musical artist has been a welcome adventure. My fifth single ‘Chase Me’ was probably the first time my sound and aesthetic felt most like home. With the latest songs that I've been creating, I've got a solid vision for the path forward and I'm exhilarated about that! Since I started releasing songs at [age] 12, there has been growth in me personally as well, so it seems logical to see growth in my music. In the fall, it'll have been two years since I started doing this. What's cool about it is that I can look back to where I started and see the growth and changes. I'm proud of everything I've done so far, and I wouldn't have changed anything! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izRMLjP3CT0 MaM : If you could share the stage with any artist, who would it be and why? HaO : Mafumafu! A few years ago, I had to pick a second language to learn for school. I started learning French, but that was a big non-merci from me after about a month. I just couldn't get the pronunciation right and wasn't feeling it. Since my appreciation for Japanese culture, candy, and food had grown, I chose to learn Japanese. Early on, it was suggested that I listen to and learn songs in the language to engross me, which would aid in familiarizing myself with pronunciation and vocabulary. When studying one day, a J-pop playlist was on autoplay, and I heard Mafumafu's cover of ‘Hated by Life Itself’ for the first time. I felt like I was hit by lightning. I understood him without understanding a single word. Between a global pandemic and the trials of adolescence, I needed brightness in my life. When I heard Mafumafu's voice, I felt seen, heard, and understood. I listened to that song incessantly for a while. All of his music and variety of content was the fortification I needed to see me through to better days. Admittedly, without something to hold onto then, I'm not sure what would've happened. I hope someday I'll get to meet him and tell him just how truly grateful I am, and wouldn't a Mafumafu x Hawthorne Oachs musical collaboration be the most beautiful finishing touch to that story? Photo provided by artist MaM : What music or things around you are inspiring you to create these days? HaO : Mental health awareness has been on my mind for the past two years, and lately I find myself digging into the problems we face as a society, but particularly those directly related to mental health. The surgeon general recently declared loneliness to be a public health crisis and said it's comparable to smoking. While I wrote and released it before this news broke, my most recent song ‘A Single Flower’ tackles the topic and the debilitating effects of loneliness. Another thing that's been on my mind is the alarmingly high rates of teenage suicide. My new song ‘Red Spider Lilies’ that is coming out on July 27th addresses the grief that one might feel when the person tethering them to this world is gone forever and they want to go, too. Maybe they were already thinking about it, and this was their breaking point, or maybe the grief was so unbearable they made the decision in a split second. I think if anyone said they were having those feelings out loud, it would be divisive, and some might even chastise them for those thoughts. This song is acknowledging that those thoughts and emotions can be part of being human and we should do better by supporting mental health, listening to others without judgment, acknowledging that humans can and do have dark thoughts, and normalize talking about those struggles. I think about how I turn to the creative output of others to comfort me, so if the art I create can be of that same service to others, then it feels like it's a small contribution and my own way of making the world a better place. Photo provided by artist MaM : What are your aspirations for the future? HaO : My primary aspiration is that my music gets to the ears and the hearts of the people who need it the most. I always set short-term goals for myself and celebrate them wildly when I reach them. I appreciate that this industry is overly saturated and jumping to the head of the line isn't realistic, nor is it a goal. I simply want to help people first and foremost. I want my music to be of service to others in the same way that music has been of service to me in my life. If that turns into something bigger than I am imagining right now, I will enthusiastically embrace whatever comes from it. The one thing that is non-negotiable and that I refuse to do is stop creating music. Music has been and always will be a comfort to me, and my true aspiration is that the music I release will be a comfort to others. - Be sure to add the music of Hawthorne Oachs on your playlist today! This young lady is creating something magical, and we cannot wait to see what she has in store for all of us in the future. To check her out, follow any one of the below-listed links. Hawthorne Oachs (@hawthorneoachs) • Instagram photos and videos Hawthorne Oachs | Facebook Hawthorne Oachs | Spotify ‎Hawthorne Oachs on Apple Music Hawthorne Oachs - YouTube www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

‘Where Gods Fear to Speak’ delivers a powerful blend of melancholy and majesty. < Back Oceans of Slumber Unveils a Bold New Chapter in Progressive Metal Brent "Shaggy Chan" Taylor Jun 24, 2024 Share ‘Where Gods Fear to Speak’ delivers a powerful blend of melancholy and majesty. Houston, Texas' own Oceans of Slumber is a Five-Piece female-fronted metal act that will release its fifth studio album, " Where Gods Fear to Speak ," on September 13, 2024. Still, for now, they have delivered a powerful title track that hits like a lightning bolt straight to the eardrum and delivers a powerful blend of melancholy and majesty, redefining the progressive metal landscape. Click to pre-order the new album! “ Where Gods Fear to Speak " is a soulful blend of melodic vocals. As a diehard fan of modern metal, this song grabbed my attention as soon as I clicked the play button. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZ-uFhTng5g The emotions felt through the music enhanced the song's impact and immediately launched me into a reflective and introspective state. The video reinforces the song's message of confronting fears and embracing vulnerability through visually striking imagery and symbolic representations. This was increasingly evident as frontwoman Cammie Gilbert-Beverly can be seen tied up and tangled in straps hanging from the ceiling, all while wearing an outfit that would make any individual feel vulnerable. The lyrics explore the internal battles faced throughout life, emphasizing the need to find strength within vulnerability. This theme resonates throughout the song, highlighting the complexity of human emotions and the journey towards self-acceptance. Buckle up because feelings of sadness, rage, and hope are all here, and you will undoubtedly feel it all like a punch in the gut! Get the latest news, releases, and more from Oceans of Slumber by checking out any of their social media pages listed below: Website : oceansofslumber.com Oceans of Slumber Home page of Oceans of Slumber, a metal group from Houston. Official website of Texas Progressive Metal band Oceans of Slumber. Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/oceansofslumber/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/oceansofslumber/?hl=en YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/user/oceansofslumber Spotify : https://open.spotify.com/artist/2JSza6IRxLr1Ez3wqKd0SY?si=aWrsTRHCSCemMNRQaSk5tw Do you have something you think Shaggy would like? Hit him up at shaggy.mixedaltmag@gmail.com . www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

The music of Sugarfuzz is full of pop melodies and catchy hooks < Back Sugarfuzz: Feel Good Rock Nicole Brice Jul 3, 2023 Share The music of Sugarfuzz is full of pop melodies and catchy hooks Forever on the hunt for new tunage, or so it seems, I recently came across a band out of Georgia who calls themselves Sugarfuzz . The band features members of Atlanta rock bands Hanging Francis, Chain Poets, My Rebel Episode, and the Bloody Hells with Greg Kaegen (vocals/guitar), Kenny Tsao (bass), Gary Spano (drums/vocals) and Johnny Powell (lead vox/rhythm guitar). Having just wrapped up the recording for their debut album, the men of Sugarfuzz were nice enough to let me listen to an advance copy so I could give my perspective on the music. Recorded at Furies Studios in Blue Ridge and Marietta, Georgia, and produced by Ed Burdell (of Magnapop), this album rocks from start to finish. With no fillers and every song being a banger, Sugarfuzz have managed to craft a solid recording full of tunes that’ll make you want to hop in your car and roll the windows down with the stereo blaring. Beginning with the track “Are You with Me,” which has a riff reminiscent of the intro for the 90’s comedy show Kids in the Hall , each song after that sets the stage for a refreshing and nostalgic album full of fun, sing-along tunes. “Boy Meets Girl” is another stand-out track, and the guys currently have a music video on YouTube with the song for everyone to lay their eyeballs on. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p6nn424fBIw In fact, I feel that once it’s released, the Sugarfuzz debut will be one of the feel-good albums of 2023, if not 2024 , to coincide with the 90’s alt-rock revival currently beginning. The band is looking to release the album in Fall 2023, so we’ll have to just sit back and wait for now, but there are plenty of samples of their work to check out either by canvassing the band’s social media or by catching them live at a music venue near you. To get a better feel for the musicians behind the sound, I reached out to the band so we could chat a bit more in-depth. You’ll want to listen to their music after reading this article, I’m certain of it. Check out our conversation below. MaM : Guys, thank you for chatting with me. I want to start by asking when can we anticipate this amazing album you sent me being released? It is so good! Johnny : We are kind of holding on to it for a little bit, but we’re thinking sometime in the fall. We are sitting on it to see what kind of anticipatory buzz we can get on it first. MaM : The entire album is solid with each song jamming. It reminds me of the great albums of the past where you could put the CD in, press play, and just go! Johnny : That’s exactly the kind of idea we had when we started this project. We got together after admiring each other’s work in other local bands and then started writing together about a year and a half ago. We just started cranking out a bunch of songs together and then we brought the other guys on board. Kenny was playing in a cover band with me, and I invited him into the group. Ya know, we were playing stuff like Hall & Oates and stuff to get people dancing (laughs), but it never really got off the ground. It was fun, but this is really my passion. This original stuff. We wrote it as a whole record, though. All of us admire records, but it seems everyone does singles these days. Photo provided by band MaM : Oh, I get it. I remember when actual albums did exist. (laughs) Johnny : We got together with this guy, Ed Burdell, who is an old friend of ours and he has a log cabin up in Blue Ridge in the mountains of Georgia. He always wanted to record a band up there, so he invited us up and we went and recorded the album in a weekend after much comedy and maybe too many drinks. (laughs) We did the basic tracks in one day. Greg : It was a six-and-a-half-hour session and we cut all the basic tracks for all the songs. MaM : That goes to show the cohesiveness you guys have as musicians. You are already vibing. Greg : Plus, we went up on a Friday and started playing on a Saturday. That Friday, though, we got to hang out together, just us guys, and we bonded and then we made a record. It felt great from the moment we started playing. Johnny : The producer actually produced Magnapop and that’s one of his most notable production credits. He’s truly a master. He’s got great microphones, too, and we had one up in the loft recording everything as it was happening, but he’s a zen master at production. He really found some good sounds with this basic batch of songs. MaM : This album sounds like what a 90’s rock revival should sound like. Truly. Now, a bit of a deeper dive into the band history, what initially drew you together? Was it more because of like styles? Johnny : I don’t think it was necessarily stylistic, but Greg and I both fronted bands and would support each other. We always admired each other’s songwriting and guitar playing and I always toyed with the idea of writing with Greg. It just never happened until a year and a half ago and when we did get together, we discovered it was effortless. Greg : So, one day, Johnny is setting up microphones for us, and I just plugged into one of his amps and I started playing the opening riff for “Don’t Tell Me That,” and by the time he’s done setting up the mics, he grabs a pad and pen and starts scribbling. He just starts writing this verse over the song I was playing and the song came together in about an hour. It took no effort. It’s all come together easy. Johnny : We wrote almost all of it in the rehearsal space and would stop each other when something sounded cool and then we would come up with a verse or chorus melody to go over it, and it just fell together naturally. We’re just getting rolling and just getting started, so we are hoping to have some great gigs later this summer and fall. MaM : As far as your sound, did you have a sound you were going for initially going into this project? Johnny : We didn’t really design it. It’s just what fell out of us. Greg : There was never a discussion about it, honestly. I wasn’t looking to get the monster ultimate guitar sound. I had nothing I wanted in my head. I decided to just plug into an amp with no effects or anything. We weren’t shooting for anything, and it just came out the way it came out. Very organic. MaM : As far as future aspirations go, what can we expect? Johnny : The sky is the limit. We just want to make music and have fun doing it. To experience the music of Sugarfuzz for yourself, hit one of the links below and keep your eyes and ears peeled for their debut album coming soon! Facebook Sugarfuzz - YouTube Album Teaser by Sugarfuzz (soundcloud.com) www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Trailer Park is a song that resonates in all the right ways. < Back Reviews on the Real: Trailer Park by Mayrunner Nicole Brice Aug 1, 2025 Share Trailer Park is a song that resonates in all the right ways. Mayrunner , an alternative and punk band based in Lafayette, Louisiana, has returned with a new single titled ‘ Trailer Park ,’ and we can't stop listening to it. For those who aren't familiar with the band, Mayrunner has been a prominent part of the Lafayette music scene for quite some time. We even featured them in an article for RADFest back in 2023. Released August 1, 2025 Although the band took a hiatus when their lead vocalist, Devric Taylor, relocated to another state, they are now making a strong comeback and are ready to make their mark in the evolving music landscape. Credit: Elise Hanks The current line-up of Mayrunner is: Devric Taylor (vocals/guitar), Henry Milliman (bass), Coleman Wilson (guitar), and Phil Hardy (drums). Some of their past releases include Good for What We Are , which came out in 2018 , and Tell Me Where You’ve Been , released in 2023 . Today, let's explore the new song ' Trailer Park .' It opens powerfully with Devric's echoing vocals, then transitions into a beautifully chaotic sound before gradually softening into a slower tempo. I enjoy it when bands incorporate tempo changes; it keeps the music feeling fresh. As the chorus begins to build, it rolls effortlessly and is incredibly well-crafted. Once it starts building, it does not let up until it has to end, and then it trails off with one of those heavy basslines I love. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwT9_Ksiv_0 'Trailer Park' by Mayrunner ' Trailer Park ' is a song that resonates in all the right ways. Be sure to stream it today! *photos by Elise Hanks Facebook To learn more about Mayrunner: Facebook: Facebook Instagram: Mayrunner (@we_are_mayrunner) • Instagram photos and videos Bandcamp: Music | Mayrunner www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to us at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

The Fremonts blend elements of folk, country, blues, and rock in a way that feels both familiar and enduring. < Back Revisiting the Roots: The Fremonts Release Remastered Classics Nicole Brice Jul 25, 2025 Share The Fremonts blend elements of folk, country, blues, and rock in a way that feels both familiar and enduring. Though The Fremonts are new to me, they have been making music together for over a decade. After sold-out performances of their original cabaret in New York City , Colorado , Massachusetts , and at the Edinburgh Fringe , as well as a cultural ambassador tour through Tajikistan with the U.S. State Department , they returned to the studio to develop a new album. However, life presented unexpected mid-life challenges, leading them to pause their latest projects and focus on remastering their existing full-length albums, We Don’t Live There and The Failure Cabaret . Those updated versions are now available on all streaming platforms. Discovering new music is an exhilarating experience; it feels like uncovering a hidden part of yourself that you didn't even realize was missing. I feel this way about The Fremonts' music . It’s warm, soulful, and steeped in the spirit of storytelling. Their sound is nostalgic yet refreshingly original. In addition to their remastered albums, The Fremonts have released a new music video for their song ‘ Ketamine Happy Hour ,’ which humorously reflects on their experiences with alternative therapies for depression. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vqxJI5cjLtk Video for 'Ketamine Happy Hour' The Fremonts combine Americana music with storytelling in a theatrical cabaret style . Stephanie Dodd , from Fremont, Nebraska , and Justin Badger , from Fremont, California , have refined their music through years of professional acting experience. They have recorded two full-length albums , toured extensively, and received rave reviews for their original cabaret performances in the U.S. and at the Edinburgh Fringe. The duo currently resides in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts . It’s challenging to define The Fremonts ' sound completely, but I would say it leans more towards Americana than anything else . Americana music is classic and timeless because it draws from the roots of American culture, blending elements of folk, country, blues, and rock in a way that feels both familiar and enduring. Credit: Eric Limon To celebrate their new releases, The Fremonts will be performing a series of shows in the Berkshires and the Hudson Valley this August. The performance dates have just been announced, so be sure to catch a show. In the meantime, let’s explore their latest work together! The Fremonts' show schedule WE DON’T LIVE THERE Since this is my first time listening to this album, I would like to share my thoughts. Stephanie’s vocals are angelic, carrying a soothing quality. Each song tells a story, painting a vivid picture in the mind. The music on this album is wonderful; I can’t think of any other word to describe it. Standout tracks: Tillman’s Wall – The beginning of this song is nothing short of epic. The sounds intertwine into a massive composition, and when Justin’s vocals kick in, it just builds and never lets up. It’s simply fantastic. Tell My Mother – Everything about this song is impressive. I often find it challenging to articulate what I love about a song, but this one is a toe-tapping singalong tune, and it’s phenomenal. Who Fears the Devil – This is a powerful track full of layers, and Justin’s vocals are flawless on this one. Album cover by Emilie Druss and Matt Lowber THE FAILURE CABARET The Failure Cabaret is an album that features a diverse range of sounds and textures, making it a truly enjoyable listen. Every track feels like a road trip through emotions. Standout tracks: Find Me – starts with a heavy groove and Stephanie's vocals take over, building to a chorus filled with conviction. I was nodding my head the entire time while listening to this track. Gravity – just plain beautiful Ketamine Happy Hour – such a fun song, and the video is even more fun. Album cover by Emilie Druss and Matt Lowber The latest releases from The Fremonts infuse new energy into the band’s already captivating catalog. They maintain the emotional depth and vintage charm of the original tracks while delivering a richer and more immersive sound experience. Whether you are a longtime fan or new to their unique blend of Americana , blues , and rock 'n' roll , these updated versions are a perfect way to rediscover or fall in love for the first time with the raw storytelling and musical craftsmanship that define The Fremonts . Go check them out today! **cover photo by Eric Limon To learn more about The Fremonts: Bandcamp: The Failure Cabaret (2025) | The Fremonts YouTube: The Fremonts - YouTube Apple Music: ‎The Fremonts - Apple Music Spotify: The Fremonts | Spotify Website: The Fremonts www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Shoot Out the Satellites is a captivating 39-minute journey of pure, unfiltered alternative rock. < Back Reviews on the Real: Shoot Out the Satellites by The BIG Reveal Nicole Brice Apr 14, 2025 Share Shoot Out the Satellites is a captivating 39-minute journey of pure, unfiltered alternative rock. Last Friday, The BIG Reveal , a band from Grand Bay, Alabama , released their debut album— a captivating 39-minute journey of pure, unfiltered alternative rock. Shoot Out the Satellites , released on April 11, 2025 , is a significant contribution to the overall rock scene. Drawing inspiration from the energy of ‘90s alternative rock, the album showcases The BIG Reveal ’s commitment to authentic, guitar-driven music . Standout tracks such as ‘ New Scars ’ and ‘ Fallout ’ highlight the band’s ability to blend different nostalgic rock elements into a modern sound that is both fresh and familiar . The band consists of a group of friends with exceptional talent, and their musical style is surprisingly mature for their young ages, showcasing a variety of sounds and textures. Each song is unique, offering a distinct experience. I encourage you to stream and add this album to your playlists; it’s excellent. There’s no filler either; every track is a gem. Released April 11, 2025 The BIG Reveal features Gavin Parker on guitar and vocals, Blake Hall on drums, and Luke Puckett on bass. Although the band has only been together for about a year, they really started to gain momentum after Luke joined. To learn more about The BIG Reveal , check out Bud Gambrell 's recent interview with them. Let’s dive into the track listing, as you absolutely need this album in your life. - New Scars – This thrashing, guitar-driven track begins with a thunderous guitar tone that draws you in until the smooth vocals hit—wow! Everything about this song is spot on. It features a hint of a southern rock sound while maintaining its solid alternative rock essence. - Fallout – This song plays with expectations; it starts out slow, but when the pre-chorus and chorus hit, it’s incredible—full of depth. - The World And All – This upbeat and enjoyable song showcases the raspier side of Gavin’s vocals at times. - Me and You – The guitar tone at the beginning has a distinct southern twang. This song is a departure from some of the band’s other tracks, leaning towards a milder, slower feel. - What I Want to Be – This one strays from the alternative sound and reminds me of a more pop-oriented country song. It’s a great track. - Can’t Find the Feeling – This track incorporates more country influences throughout. It’s enjoyable and a bit slower than the others until about 1:56, when a grunge fuzz guitar sound takes over. - Shoot Out the Satellites – The title track of the album is rich and full of depth. - It Follows – This song starts with a heavy grunge guitar sound and evolves into a head-nodding track full of rhythm. - Will You Believe Me – A hauntingly beautiful and powerful song. - Back to Goodbye – This track reminds me of a blend of Matchbox Twenty , Vertical Horizon , and 3 Doors Down ; you can definitely hear those influences. - Imagine That – A loud, powerful, and guitar-driven track—be sure to turn it up loud! This album is a must-listen , so be sure to put it on your list of things to check out today. Just click one of the links below to check it out. To learn more about The BIG Reveal: Website: The BIG Reveal Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557900071233 ‎ Apple Music: The BIG Reveal - Apple Music Spotify: The BIG Reveal | Spotify TikTok www.tiktok.com/@_thebigreveal www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to us at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Slow Down by Manchester-based band What Will Be serves as an alt-rock anthem for post-pandemic healing and is a testament to the beauty of human creativity. < Back What Will Be: Slow Down Erica Machen Nov 3, 2023 Share Slow Down by Manchester-based band What Will Be serves as an alt-rock anthem for post-pandemic healing and is a testament to the beauty of human creativity. In the world of alternative rock, where raw emotion and edginess often take center stage, ' Slow Down ' by five-piece UK-based band What Will Be —due for release November 3rd —stands out as a refreshing departure. Strongly influenced by the sound of the 90s, ' Slow Down ' evokes a sense of nostalgia reminiscent of bands like Incubus and Hoobastank . For those who turn to alternative rock and grunge-era music as a source of solace, ' Slow Down ' not only captures the essence of the past but infuses it with positive vibes that resonate deeply and makes it a must-listen in challenging times. Released November 3, 2023 What Will Be is made up of Bram (guitar/vocals), Jonny (guitar), James (bass/vocals), JK (drums/vocals), and Chris (keyboard/piano). Bram doubles down his talent by being the band’s primary songwriter with lyrics inspired by his own life and observations. With his acoustic guitar in hand, Bram became a vessel for inspiration in weaving early lyrics and melodies together for ' Slow Down '. Upon bringing it to the rest of the guys at their purpose-built studio in Manchester , the true awakening happened. Organically, JK and James worked up the rhythm section, Bram added more layers with the guitar, and Chris wove in his piano melodies and strings. What they so naturally produced with ' Slow Down ' is a testament to the beauty of human creativity. Credit: Photo provided by band ' Slow Down ' has profound relevance in our post-pandemic world, where feelings of isolation have become all too common. While it was originally penned to convey the struggle against illness and the missed opportunities to connect with loved ones, its message touches the hearts of anyone who has felt the burden of isolation. The song invites you to embrace your support networks and acknowledge those who stood by you during your most vulnerable moments. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQD9Tu0cG8U The official music video for 'Slow Down' by What Will Be One of the noteworthy characteristics of ' Slow Down ' is its compelling vocal performance . Bram pours raw emotion into his lyrics, highlighting the authenticity and heartfelt journey through pain, healing, and ultimately, resilience. The lyrics, with the recurring phrase " feel time slow down ," carry a powerful message. This line resonates with anyone who has experienced moments when life seems to come to a standstill, and yet, it also celebrates the rare instances when time aligns remarkably with our needs . With ' Slow Down ', What Will Be has achieved a fantastic ability to address complex emotions and responses to life's challenges while offering listeners a sense of understanding and shared experience— a must-listen in challenging times. In a world still struck with the aftermath of the global pandemic, What Will Be’s ' Slow Down ' serves as a poignant reminder that there's strength to be found in our connections and resilience in the face of life's challenges . The song's fusion of raw emotions, energy and positivity offers a ray of hope, and underscores the enduring spirit of the human experience. ' Slow Down ' is more than just a song; it's a testament to the healing power of music and a call to embrace the journey of resilience, no matter where you are in life. In capturing the essence of the past alongside deep human emotion, ' Slow Down ' showcases the boundless wellspring of talent within What Will Be and surely makes it a must-listen track. To learn more about What Will Be: Facebook: Facebook - What Will Be Twitter: Profile / Twitter Spotify: Slow Down - Spotify - What Will Be Apple Music: Apple Music - Slow Down - What Will Be YouTube: YouTube - What Will Be Instagram: Instagram - What Will Be www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Main Attraction feels like a cinematic trip through nostalgia. < Back Reviews on the Real: Main Attraction by Glitter Litter Nicole Brice May 12, 2026 Share Main Attraction feels like a cinematic trip through nostalgia. Released on May 8, 2026 , ' Main Attraction ' by Glitter Litter is a nonstop rush of aggression, punk energy, pop sensibilities, and colorful lyricism that paints a vivid story from start to finish — something Glitter Litter consistently excels at. Every song they release is sharply produced and packed with unforgettable imagery, creating scenes that linger in your mind like memories you’ve lived yourself. Released May 8, 2026 We previously reviewed the song ' Johnny’s Got a Girlfriend ' and the album Shocks to Sleeping Beauties , so if you haven’t checked those out yet, now’s the perfect time. This time, Glitter Litter takes you on a ride through the eyes of a guy out on a date, making it clear that no one else can steal his attention. She’s the main attraction. The repeating echo of “you’re my main attraction” is instantly infectious, the kind of hook you catch yourself humming long after the song ends. It’s vibrant, nostalgic, and ridiculously fun. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GEcZzs1u5xs 'Main Attraction' by Glitter Litter For those not familiar with Glitter Litter , it is a solo project from Sweden featuring Andreas (ex- Sugar Shock ). Inspired by glam, comic, bubblegum, and ‘80s happy metal, the project has had numerous releases since its inception, so be sure to check them all out. Main Attraction feels like a cinematic trip through neon-lit movie theaters, moonlit amusement parks, and reckless young romance. One of the strongest things about Glitter Litter’s music is how effortlessly the hooks stay with you long after the final note fades. Go stream it now. To learn more about Glitter Litter: Website: Glitter Litter - bubblegum glam/punk Spotify: Glitter Litter | Spotify Apple Music: ‎Glitter Litter - Apple Music YouTube: youtube.com Glitter Litter www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com mixedalternativemag@gmail.com Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Juan Blak’s version of “One of the Living” mesmerizes with outstanding vocals that evolve into an eargasmic blend of metal and industrial rock. < Back Juan Blak's Interpretation of Tina Turner's "One of the Living": A Powerful Metal Metamorphosis Erica Machen Oct 27, 2023 Share Juan Blak’s version of “One of the Living” mesmerizes with outstanding vocals that evolve into an eargasmic blend of metal and industrial rock. " You're one of the living, and if we can't stick together … " These words echo with profound resonance as Juan Blak brings this sentiment to life. He not only captures the essence of these lines but embodies their message in a remarkable way. By uniting a diverse group of living music artists for a cover of the late Tina Turner's ' One of the Living ', Juan Blak achieves something magical. It is truly an auditory delight. Over the course of roughly 22 years, Juan Blak been a part of the heavy metal scene in Los Angeles and later in Indianapolis . He reveals that his relocation to Indianapolis has yielded more musical progress than any of his time spent in Los Angeles . The connections made through his journey with his band BlaK SundaY and his own ever-evolving talent culminated in this incredible collaborative cover, redefining the sound of the rock anthem. Photo provided by artist This bold undertaking features Juan Blak on lead vocals, AIR-IK of Willow Wisp on guitar, Gene Migaki of Thorns of Sin on bass, Justin Hall of Artificial Zero and Synkhole Studios producing. What was once a classic rock song with outstanding vocals has now evolved into an eargasmic blend of metal and industrial rock. The infusion of heavy bass lines, symphonic vocals, and just the right touch of synth elements offers listeners a fresh perspective on the lyrics. GROUP As I sat astonished at what my ears were hearing, the lyrics took on new meaning to me. What once brought on the thoughts of Mad Max ’s post-apocalyptic world and survival now brings on the feelings of surviving life in the present. The depths of the lyrics are pushed by Blak’s force of a voice as the heavy instrumentals and synth deliver like a stake right through the heart of listeners. Lines like " They always said that the living would envy the dead " tug at the weariness of the human experience yet ultimately inspire us to persevere. In this metal-inspired rendition, Blak's unique baritone sound and tenor range shine, with hints of Chino Moreno from Deftones , making ' One of the Living ' an extraordinary listening experience. Even if you've never considered yourself a fan of metal, this cover demands your attention and leaves little room for disappointment. Blak's talent and vision are undeniably a force to be reckoned with in the music world. Photo provided by artist Blak mentions that a music video for ' One of the Living ' was in the works but was temporarily sidelined by his commitments with BlaK SundaY . The band remains his primary focus, as they are set to release their new album, Songs of Love, Death & Revolution , on Halloween. With live performances, recording sessions, and jam sessions, Blak's solo project serves as a fun creative outlet for him as well as an avenue for exciting collaborations with friends. In anticipation of their album release, BlaK SundaY has already shared a couple of videos, ' 11:59...Midnight ' and a cover of The Sisters of Mercy 's ' Lucretia, My Reflection '. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZPyLz_dNeaY Blak Sunday '11:59...Midnight' Whether you explore Juan Blak as a solo artist or immerse yourself in the sonic world of BlaK SundaY , you're in for a musical journey that's bound to leave a lasting impression. Don't miss the chance to witness his artistic prowess unfold. To learn more about Juan Blak: Bandcamp: https://juanblak.bandcamp.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/@JuanBlaktv Patreon: https://patreon.com/blaktv www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Voice of the Enemy is back with an EP full of head-nodding rhythms. < Back Reviews on the Real: Voice of the Enemy’s Mannequin of Misery: Volume 1 EP Nicole Brice Dec 14, 2024 Share Voice of the Enemy is back with an EP full of head-nodding rhythms. Groove metal is currently alive and well in south Louisiana. This latest release from Louisiana’s own Voice of the Enemy is full of rhythms that will have your head nodding non-stop. Released on December 14, 2024 , Mannequin of Misery: Volume 1 marks a striking return for a band that has been on hiatus for a few years. Released December 14, 2024 The first single, ‘ Combustion ,’ was released on November 29, 2024, and was an excellent teaser for this monstrous masterpiece of an EP that was forthcoming. With vocals reminiscent of Rob Halford , ‘ Combustion ’ is a song with so many layers and textures that you can’t help but be intrigued to hear more, and that’s exactly what it did for me leading up to the release of the full EP. Mannequin of Misery: Volume 1 opens with ‘ Redemption Song ’ – a track that starts with a groove in the melody from the get-go with a faint build to a thematic opening. The guitar in the beginning part is so clean. The production of this song is so clean. Holy crap. Head nodding right off the bat. After the killer opening track is ‘ Intentional ’ – a song that begins with a powerful scream that sets the tone for a fast-paced head-nodding extravaganza . Voice of the Enemy truly brings the “groove” to groove metal with this track. While the band bio describes their music as thrash , this EP proves they have evolved past that. Up next is ‘ Time in Hell ’, which is a bit of a departure from the deep grooves shown in the prior tracks. It begins with an instrumental opening that is so intense you are waiting in anticipation for what’s next. When the vocals start, it intensifies until the chorus hits you with a gut punch—an enjoyable track. Ending the EP is ‘ Execution ’ – a hard-hitting, thunderous, fast-paced ride of aggression. Reminds me of old Judas Priest . It's a fun song. While Volume 1 doesn’t shy away from the expected heavy metal influences—such as breakdowns, chugging guitar riffs, and fierce drumming—the infusion of some more progressive sounds truly sets the EP apart and shows that Voice of the Enemy is indeed back and ready to take on the scene. Stream Mannequin of Misery: Volume 1 now on your favorite streaming platform and be sure to catch Voice of the Enemy LIVE in January. Check their social media for more information and dates. For more info on Voice of the Enemy : Facebook Voice Of The Enemy | ReverbNation Voice Of The Enemy (@voiceoftheenemyband) • Instagram photos and videos Stream Voice Of The Enemy music | Listen to songs, albums, playlists for free on SoundCloud YouTube www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Fresh indie albums and singles you'll want on repeat. < Back Reviews on the Real: Music Picks for July 2026 Nicole Brice Jun 30, 2026 Share Fresh indie albums and singles you'll want on repeat. A new month is just around the corner, which means it’s the perfect time to discover some fresh indie tunes and albums. We’re all about variety here, so this list is packed with different genres and sounds—there’s something for everyone. Vudu Sister – Adynata (album) – alternative folk – released March 20, 2026 Vudu Sister is a gothic folk band from Providence, Rhode Island , and their music really sticks with you—think haunting melodies, poetic lyrics, and a vibe that draws you in. Their latest album, Adynata , has twelve tracks, each one telling its own story with lyrics and rich, moody sounds. We previously covered the tracks, ‘ Magic Powers ’, and ‘ The Valley ’, which you can read about here . In order to fully appreciate the artistry that is Vudu Sister , throw on a pair of headphones, make a cup of tea, and shut out the world. Adynata is out now on all streaming platforms. Click photo to listen Aaron J. Burke – Day by Day (song) – alternative – released June 6, 2026 Aaron is an Irish musician whose stripped-back songs hit you right in the feels. His lyrics are honest and raw—they just get under your skin in the best way. ‘ Day by Day ’ is no different; it’s the kind of song that can bring tears to your eyes before you even realize it. If you’re into music that really tugs at your heartstrings, Aaron’s tracks are a must-listen. We’ve talked about his other songs before— ‘ Phoenix ,’ ‘ Run for Cover ,’ ‘ My Therapy ,’ and his EP, Rise Not Fall . Seriously, give all of Aaron’s music a listen, and don’t miss out on streaming ‘ Day by Day ’ right now. Click to listen Dakota Shreddly Amacker – The Abysmal Voyage (album) – rock/metal – released June 26, 2026 Dakota is a Mississippi musician (you might also know him from Shades of Wisteria ) who absolutely shreds on guitar. His latest solo album, The Abysmal Voyage , is packed with ten tracks of jaw-dropping instrumental guitar work—it’s seriously impressive. There’s a reason people call him “Shreddly.” If you’re into mind-blowing guitar, you’ve got to check out The Abysmal Voyage . Go stream it now! Click to listen pMad – NineFortyFive (song) – post-punk - released June 6, 2026 pMad is an Irish musician who’s keeping the spirit of post-punk alive with every track he drops. His music is haunting, moody, and packed with depth—seriously, it just hits different. His latest song, ‘ NineFortyFive ,’ is a punchy, upbeat track that sounds like what you’d get if Machines of Loving Grace and Joy Division teamed up. Go give ‘ NineFortyFive ’ a listen—you won’t regret it. Click to listen Glitter Litter – Final Summer Night (song) – out July 3, 2026 Our next pick doesn’t officially drop until July 3rd , but we got an early listen—and trust us, you’re going to want this on your summer playlist. ‘Final Summer Night’ is the latest from Sweden’s Glitter Litter , a project that’s pure glam-punk goodness. The songs are raw, bold, and totally immersive, each one painting a wild, colorful story you can’t help but get lost in. We’ve raved about their tracks like ‘ Main Attraction ,’ ‘ Johnny’s Got a Girlfriend ,’ and the EP Shocks to Sleeping Beauties , but this new one just might be our favorite yet. Who doesn’t want a little summer magic? Click to listen on July 3, 2026 Keyton – Trace of Red (song) – emo/punk - out July 3, 2026 Keyton is an emo-punk musician from Alabama who knows how to cut straight to the good stuff—no gimmicks, just honest, hard-hitting music. Our Alabama insider, Bud Gambrell , wrote a great piece on Keyton back in 2024 (definitely worth a read!). His latest single, ‘Trace of Red,’ is a total powerhouse from start to finish—nonstop energy, real emotion, and seriously catchy hooks. It officially drops July 3rd , and you won’t want to miss it. In the meantime, dive into Keyton’s other releases—you’ll be glad you did. Keyton’s previous track, ‘ Lucid Dream ,’ dropped in December 2025 —and it’s a must-listen. Give it a spin and get lost in his sound. Click to listen on July 3, 2026 Alfred Banks – Yestermonth (album) – hip hop/rap – released June 12, 2026 New Orleans-based Alfred Banks’ new album, Yestermonth , is an absolute gem . It’s all about pushing through, perfecting your craft, and beating the odds—stuff we can all relate to. Banks is honestly one of the most underrated voices in hip hop today, and his flow gives me serious A Tribe Called Quest vibes: thoughtful, meaningful, and packed with depth. These are the kind of songs that really make you reflect. Trust us—don’t just pick a song or two. Throw on some headphones, hit play, and let yourself get completely lost in Yestermonth from start to finish. It’s out now, so dive in! Click to listen Want a spot on next month’s list? Send us your music—we’re always excited to hear new tracks and feature fresh talent! Email: mixedalternativemag@gmail.com www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

‘Run for Cover’ is an evocative track with introspective lyrics. < Back Reviews on the Real: Run for Cover by Aaron J. Burke Nicole Brice Oct 1, 2024 Share ‘Run for Cover’ is an evocative track with introspective lyrics. ‘ Run for Cover ’ is the latest release from Irish musician Aaron J. Burke , released on September 16, 2024, and offers a captivating and catchy blend of emotional sincerity and musical finesse. The song opens with a gentle and upbeat guitar riff, setting the tone and vibe. “Run fast, run for cover,” echoes the pre-chorus and chorus as Burke’s honest and raw vocals are delivered with vulnerability and intensity. The chorus – urgent yet melodic – serves as the song’s emotional core, reflecting between confrontation and retreat. Released September 16, 2024 Thematically, ‘ Run for Cover ’ explores escape, self-reflection, and the desire to find safety amidst inner turmoil. Burke’s lyrical style is poetic, and I genuinely enjoy it. The song's production is bare and stripped down, allowing Burke’s voice and lyrical content to take center stage. In contrast, the subtle build with instrumentation throughout the song adds layers of intensity, culminating in a powerful climax. There are no frills – just straight, enjoyable music. That’s the best way I can describe ‘ Run for Cover ’ by Aaron J. Burke. It’s melodic from start to finish, with excellent lyrics. For the lyrical inspiration behind his latest single, Aaron J. Burke said, “Run for Cover lyrically is a mash-up of various things, times when I've felt powerless or oppressed in life; it was my way of dealing with those emotions and writing something where I was saying, ‘No more, I won't be treated this way, I'm taking control over my life.’” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=og2TUD8YZns I can even envision this song with a full band accompanying Aaron. I’ll be curious to see the future direction of his musical career as time progresses, so be sure to stream ‘ Run for Cover ’ on your favorite streaming service today. To learn more about Aaron J. Burke: Facebook Instagram www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90's flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

'Haunted by Disillusion' is a non-stop ride of heavy guitars and grunge fuzz. < Back Reviews on the Real: Phantum Sun’s Haunted by Disillusion Nicole Brice Mar 12, 2025 Share 'Haunted by Disillusion' is a non-stop ride of heavy guitars and grunge fuzz. We all need a fresh musical journey from time to time, and today, I present the latest from a three-piece grunge band, Phantum Sun , from the Lafayette area of Louisiana . Phantum Sun 's aggressive and thunderous alt-rock sound is impossible to miss, and their dedication and commitment to their craft are truly admirable. Lead vocalist Nick Cline and his crew are constantly playing shows, never taking breaks, and their relentless work ethic makes them one of the hardest-working bands out there. Their newest EP, Haunted by Disillusion , released on February 21, 2025 , is a powerful music experience that I urge you to add to your playlist. Released February 21, 2025 It’s loud, it’s got fuzz, and each song is so different, in a good way. The versatility of Phantum Sun 's music, with no two songs sounding the same, not only keeps you engaged but also offers a unique experience with each track. The EP flows seamlessly , too, with each song offering something different, yet cohesive enough to feel like part of a larger, unbroken narrative. Lyrically, Haunted by Disillusion is a journey through the depths of human emotion. The EP delves into themes of internal struggle, personal reflection, and the disorientation of a changing world. Phantum Sun ’s introspective lyricism serves as the emotional anchor of this EP, inviting you to connect with the band on a deeper level. It's quite remarkable that Nick Cline , a young man in his early twenties, has experienced so much to draw influence from lyrically. Phantum Sun is Nick Cline (guitar/vocals), Alec Louviere (drums), and Drake Lasseigne (bass). Learn more about the band here in this article. Let’s dive into these tracks, shall we? Velvet Nights This is the opening track for the EP, and the song's beginning has a very “punk” vibe. As the song progresses and Nick says, “C’mon now, let’s take a drive,” the song kicks into high gear and reminds me of Wolfgang Van Halen meets good, solid punk rock. The breakdown at the end of the song is insane! Turn it up loud! Chains Chains starts as a typical alt-rock song, but around the 2:40 mark, it picks up the pace and ends on an impactful note. The jam session between the guys towards the song's end has so much energy. Great track. Drown This is a slower-paced tune, but it still has just as much energy and aggression as previous tracks. It is very enjoyable. Overall, Haunted by Disillusion is a solid release from Phantum Sun , showcasing their continual evolution as a band. This EP deserves repeated listens, revealing new layers with each play, and in my opinion, establishes Phantum Sun as an artist to watch. Haunted by Disillusion is out now on all streaming platforms. To learn more about Phantum Sun: Facebook Phantum Sun (@phantumsunband) • Instagram photos and videos Phantum Sun | Spotify ‎Phantum Sun - Apple Music www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

‘High Desert Lows’ is an EP full of songs that speak of truth. < Back Reviews on the Real: Doctor Nez’s ‘High Desert Lows’ Nicole Brice Nov 22, 2024 Share ‘High Desert Lows’ is an EP full of songs that speak of truth. One thing I love about discovering new music is that you never know what you’ll find when you hit that play button. Case in point, the newest EP from Doctor Nez , aka Kenny Charters, a desert rock musician originally from Tulsa, Oklahoma, who now resides in Colorado. I had no clue what to expect upon listening to his newest EP for the first time, but I was pleasantly surprised and impressed once I sat down to consume all 27 minutes of his unique blend of desert rock . Photo provided by artist Doctor Nez's music, with its crisp, clean vocals, resonates with the human experience. His lyrics, which touch on truth, sorrow, focus, and determination, are a reflection of life’s ups and downs. His music is not just good rock with some twists and turns, but a mirror to our own life experiences and struggles. Doctor Nez, who has released two EPs of original material since early 2024, is a musician who is not just honing his craft but also making a significant impact. His music is a testament to his dedication and passion, inspiring others to strive for their best. His latest release, High Desert Lows , was released on November 15, 2024. It is a solid EP full of tunes sure to pique your interest. We break down the tracks for you below. Mark the Grave “Dead inside yet somehow breathing” – powerful opening lyrics for an opus of a song. Heavy guitars with a steady groove – this song pulls you in because of the powerful words. I had to turn it up and repeat it several times to truly take in all the lyrics. It's a solid rock tune. If You Know the Deal It's a head-nodding tune full of fuzz with a classic rock sound that starts loud but then tones down its vibe with softer lyrics full of introspection. As the chorus kicks in, this tune kicks it up a notch. Great track. Left All Alone It has an interesting vibe with the opening – I can’t exactly describe it. It's a very cool and laid-back tune that progresses into a heavy chorus. Among the Pages Tranquility is the word that pops into my head when I hear this instrumental tune. The guitar parts have a tranquil aura. It’s a bit softer than some of the other tunes on this EP, but I can hear the blues influence. In the Shadow of a Mountain It's another softer track that begins with a very ethereal sound. The crackling in the background makes me think I’m sitting around a campfire with an acoustic guitar. The vocals are soothing. I closed my eyes to listen to this one because I wanted to truly be immersed in it. It's a beautiful track. High Desert Lows It is an enjoyable track full of alt-grunge sensibilities. The vocals on this track soar. Left All Alone (radio cut) An altered version of the original track made radio-friendly. Photo provided by artist After I finished listening to High Desert Lows , I still had a few unanswered questions, so I reached out to Doctor Nez for more clarification. Check out our conversation below. MaM : What message would you like people to take away from your music? Your lyrics are potent and inspiring. Doctor Nez : My biggest goal is for listeners to extrapolate their own meanings from my music, but I can certainly give an idea of this EP's mood. ‘High Desert Lows’ is a labor of hate -- it is about places and situations where I was absolutely miserable and would never want to be again. That being said, I hope that every listener can relate at least one song to their own struggles and know they are not alone in feeling this way...they're not the first, and surely not the last. I hope people can bury themselves in at least one song, tunnel through, and come out the other side knowing that whatever they battled to relate to this, that by continuing, they've already won. You can find a similar message at the end of the 'Mark the Grave' music video on YouTube. MaM : Do you have a favorite track on this EP, and if so, which one? Doctor Nez : I have two. From a production standpoint, it's absolutely ‘ Mark the Grave .’ I think it's currently my "gold standard" for the minimum level of quality for future releases. The whole EP was written, recorded, and mixed by myself in my un-sound-treated basement, so I feel exceptionally proud that I was able to make something so (in my opinion) top-notch. From a music/songwriting perspective, it's ‘ High Desert Lows .' Sometimes, I almost forget that it's me; I really feel like I nailed the mood with the lyrics on that one, to the point that it didn't even need a true second verse. It'll also be tough to out-write that riff. MaM : I am in LOVE with the track, ' Among the Pages .' What was the inspiration behind it, and how did it come about? Doctor Nez : ‘ Among the Pages ’ is a funny one. Every record I make is likely to have a weird, atmospheric instrumental because that's one of the things I do in my free time. I'm the game master for a long-running Dungeons and Dragons campaign (which my wife, For the Love of Chuck, streams on Twitch ), and I decided early on in the game to make my own music for the game. ‘ Among the Pages ’ started as the background music for a huge, imposing magical archive belonging to a God. Over time, I felt it pulled the same emotional strings for me as some of the low moments while writing 'High Desert Lows', and I knew it had to be the sound that led into ‘ In the Shadow of a Mountain .’ MaM : Do you have any plans to tour in 2025? Doctor Nez : I'd love to play some shows in 2025. I'm doing everything myself right now, and it's very important to me that I find a few musicians who like the music enough to really get into it in a live setting. Economics is a big hurdle, too; I won't bring someone in to play my music if I can't pay them. I already have a prospective bassist interested, but rounding up a drummer and second guitarist could be challenging (Colorado Springs area players, DM me). MaM : Who do you cite as your ultimate vocal influence ? Doctor Nez : Gosh, that's a tough one. I don't sound like any of these guys, but my top 4 influences when it comes to stylistic choices are Ville Valo (HIM), Sahaj Ticotin (Ra), Matt Scannell (Vertical Horizon), and Tom Templar (Green Lung). If you want to add a little desert rock to your playlist, start with High Desert Lows by Doctor Nez . Guaranteed you’ll like it. For more information about Doctor Nez: Apple Music : music.apple.com Doctor Nez on Apple Music Listen to music by Doctor Nez on Apple Music. Spotify : Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/doctor_nez/ YouTube : www.youtube.com Doctor Nez Doctor Nez provides a punchy, riff-driven hybrid of Alternative and Desert Rock with honest lyrics about the struggles of modern life, drawing influences from a wide range of sounds, such as Alice In Chains, HIM, Witchcraft, Vertical Horizon, Red Fang, Green Lung, Church of the Cosmic Skull, and Black Sabbath. From paranoia to substance dependence, loneliness to uncertainty, suicidal ideation to survivors' grief, Doctor Nez retells haunting stories from firsthand and secondhand accounts, all wrapped up in a package of gritty, overdriven guitar tones and unapologetically disheveled vocals. Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/doctornezmusic www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Do you have something you'd like us to review? Send us an e-mail at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . 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The Wrestlers are a three-piece thrash metal powerhouse with nostalgic sounds. < Back Reviews on the Real: The Wrestlers J. Heist Aug 28, 2025 Share The Wrestlers are a three-piece thrash metal powerhouse with nostalgic sounds. Hailing from Oristano, Italy , The Wrestlers are a three-piece thrash metal powerhouse. Combining the nostalgic sounds of classic thrash metal and heavy metal, this band is "A Fuoco" (on fire)!!! With driving bass riffs, intricate guitar work, hardcore metal vocals, and non-stop drumming, they transport you back in time. If you enjoy thrash music, such as Metallica , Testament , and Megadeth , combined with elements of Judas Priest , Iron Maiden , and hardcore punk , I highly recommend giving this record a spin. The Wrestlers' self-titled album gets two thumbs up from me. Credit: The Wrestlers The Wrestlers are Alex Murru (Guitar/Voice), Simone Mura (Bass), and Samuele Oggiano (Drums). Released March 7, 2025 Necrophilic Woman This song is a fantastic way to kick off the album. Fast guitar playing and a catchy vocal melody set the tone where the song travels at breakneck speed, offering a brief moment of peace with a melodic breakdown before overwhelming you with an incredible guitar solo. This track serves as a perfect introduction to what the rest of the album has to offer—great riffs, impressive harmonies, and an overall fantastic composition. Look at the Dark This song takes a more melodic approach throughout. The vocals showcase their range in the chorus, while the rhythm section brings it back down to Earth. This track has everything, from solid songwriting to music that perfectly matches the title. ' Look at the Dark ' is one of my favorites on the album and will definitely have you contemplating the shadows. Rapist Demon This song brings hardcore punk vibes, reminiscent of Propagandhi but with a death metal twist. It has that old-school/new-school sound that will leave you wanting to press play again. It feels like a party anthem, and I can easily see it featured in a film. With its straightforward chord progressions, it epitomizes the concept of "less is more." You won’t know whether to get in the pit, headbang, or sing along. Explosion of Skull This track comes in strong with heavy guitars from the very start, reminding you that The Wrestlers didn’t come to play. The song is confrontational, featuring heavy metal and punk riffs along with a bass breakdown that leads into harmonized guitars and a stellar solo. If you're not in the pit by the end of this song, you might not be listening closely. The Apocalypse of Blood This song is a fast-paced beast that also offers some breathing room. Its breakdowns demonstrate that they came to both melt faces and woo you with metal, only to ramp up the speed again. This song has Slayer vibes, especially with a solo that would make Kerry King proud. ' The Apocalypse of Blood ' perfectly encapsulates what The Wrestlers are all about. After the Apocalypse When a metal song starts with a bass line, you know it’s going to be good. This track is on the slower side compared to the others on the album, showcasing their ability to craft guitar harmonies and groove riffs. It serves as the first song on the B-side of the album and as a great way to kick off that part. ' After the Apocalypse ' is as close to a ballad as metal gets. Le Leggi Dell'Umanità On this song, The Wrestlers utilize their multilingual skills to bring a taste of Italy to the mix serving up a drum intro, multiple time signatures, a bass break, and fast guitars. This track is an excellent representation of several of their writing styles combined into one. If you play this on a road trip, be sure to put it on cruise control. Mr. Beer This song brings back hardcore punk vibes. It differs slightly from the others, but still effectively represents their music. The bass player showcases his melodic talent with another catchy bass intro. This one's a bit of a happier version of their music but retains that metal edge. The Wrestlers indeed demonstrate their diversity with this song. Metal Father ' Metal Father ' introduces more hardcore punk sounds with great, simplistic yet effective guitar progressions and a sing-along-worthy chorus. The interlude strips things down a notch, offering a moment to catch your breath—if you have a lighter, this would be the perfect time to hold it up. It’s another example of the "less is more" approach, complete with superb dynamics. Violent Storms The closing track, ' Violent Storms ,' is an excellent way to end the album. It features classic 80s thrash metal grooves and powerful vocals that light up the speakers. Even the lyrics are perfectly crafted to conclude the album. This song might even be my personal favorite on the record, demonstrating once again that The Wrestlers can do more than play fast. Credit: The Wrestlers Overall, this is a fantastic album from start to finish, with a good flow from song to song. Each track has its own identity and leaves you wanting to hear more. If The Wrestlers aren’t in your playlist, you’re definitely missing out. Spin this album at full volume. The Wrestlers' self-titled album is a must-listen. Peace, love, and music, - J Heist To learn more about The Wrestlers: Facebook: The Wrestlers Facebook Instagram: The Wrestlers Instagram Spotify: The Wrestlers - Album by The Wrestlers | Spotify Apple Music: ‎The Wrestlers - Album by The Wrestlers - Apple Music The Triad Rec: THE TRIAD REC | Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Got something for J. Heist to check out? E-mail us at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

‘Serenity’ possesses a surreal and atmospheric quality that takes you on a soothing journey. < Back Reviews on the Real: Serenity by Nicki Needham Nicole Brice May 12, 2025 Share ‘Serenity’ possesses a surreal and atmospheric quality that takes you on a soothing journey. Today, we’re exploring the latest release from Louisiana-based singer-songwriter Nicki Needham . She has become a prominent figure in the local music scene, thanks to her remarkable talent, unwavering drive, and exceptional work ethic. Nicki is frequently performing and has taken the stage at numerous music festivals throughout the state, including Festival Internationale and Fête du Void . Released May 8, 2025 Released on May 8, 2025 , ‘ Serenity ’ possesses a surreal and atmospheric quality that takes you on a soothing journey. I always listen to new songs with headphones to fully immerse myself in the rich textures and layers of the music, and this release was no different. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qvgaZplXxJw The official music video for 'Serenity' by Nicki Needham. The opening of ' Serenity ' is hauntingly beautiful, filled with soul and depth. It leads into one of the most soothing and captivating voices I've ever heard, giving me chills from start to finish. Nicki’s voice reminds me of American singer-songwriter Anna Nalick , whose music was the soundtrack to my endless drives to and from Hammond during college. The mixing of this track is flawless, and the production quality is exceptional. Nicki’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone searching for themselves amidst the world's chaos. She encourages listeners to take time for self-reflection and to discover their own serenity. The spoken word segment at the end of the song is particularly noteworthy; I closed my eyes and felt myself slipping into a semi-meditative state. As ' Serenity ' concludes, it erupts into a powerful chorus filled with emotion. It truly is a rollercoaster of a song! The track ends on such a high note that it leaves you wanting more. No joke—go stream ‘ Serenity ’ now, and you can thank me later. Look for a full EP release from Nicki Needham in the fall of 2025, too. To learn more about Nicki Needham: YouTube: Nicki Needham - YouTube Website: www.nickineedhammusic.com Facebook: Facebook Instagram: Nicki Needham (@nickineedhammusic) • Instagram photos and videos Spotify: Nicki Needham | Spotify Apple Music: ‎Nicki Needham - Apple Music www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to us at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

XIII Minutes delves into the dynamics of power and influence on their latest offering. < Back Exploring XIII Minutes’ Bold New Track: ‘Cult Leader’ Nicole Brice Jun 26, 2024 Share XIII Minutes delves into the dynamics of power and influence on their latest offering. Sometimes, a song comes across my radar and instantly hooks me. “Cult Leader” by Tulsa-based XIII Minutes has done just that. Released June 23, 2024, and currently available via Bandcamp, “Cult Leader” is a gripping mix of hard-hitting lyrics and compelling instrumentation with a solid four minutes of sound to get your pulse and adrenaline pumping. The mix sounds great—the vocals have a pop-punk vibe, and the chorus is a powerful standout. XIII Minutes continues to push boundaries with a track that is both sonically aggressive and lyrically profound. The song is structured around dynamic shifts between explosive verses and a chorus that is both anthemic and chilling, with the soundscape being chaotic yet controlled. Overall, ‘Cult Leader’ is a solid and enjoyable track that cleverly weaves hints of early 2000s rock with the high energy of pop punk, creating a unique and intriguing sound that will surely get you going. Click to experience 'Cult Leader' for yourself! Written by Jamie Kucinski (drums), Thomas Wheat (guitars), Jerrod Cunningham (vocals), and Preston Bell (bass), ‘Cult Leader’ starts jamming as soon as the song begins and does not let up the entire time. This song has it all, and I highly recommend you listen to it today. To learn more about XIII Minutes: xiiiminutesofficial | Instagram, Facebook | Linktree www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Frankenstein Mind is a song that gets under your skin. < Back Reviews on the Real: Frankenstein Mind by Shades of Wisteria Nicole Brice Jan 21, 2026 Share Frankenstein Mind is a song that gets under your skin. Released on January 15, 2026, ‘ Frankenstein Mind ’ is the debut release from Shades of Wisteria , a four-piece Progressive Rock/Metal band from the Mississippi Gulf Coast . The song begins with haunting, soulful vocals that build into an electrifying chorus, cranking the intensity up to ten. Paired with a visually stunning music video , it’s a beautifully crafted track brimming with emotion. A somewhat newer band, Shades of Wisteria , formed in 2025 and quickly hit the stage, playing select tour dates, local festivals, and even Renaissance Faires. Exactly one year later, they celebrated their anniversary by dropping their first single. Credit: Shades of Wisteria ‘ Frankenstein Mind ’ is one of those songs that quietly gets under your skin, feeling honest and messy all at the same time. The melody is soft, but heavy, and the lyrics hit without trying too hard. It’s the kind of song you put on late at night, and suddenly you’re staring at the ceiling, thinking about everything. Nothing about it feels forced – it’s just genuinely beautiful and really easy to get lost in. Guitarist Dakota Amacker said of how the song came together, “Frankenstein Mind tells the story of how every part of who you are is made up of all your experiences; the good, the bad, the ups and downs. It all is part of your story, and everyone is beautiful in their own way.” Shades of Wisteria features Rhiannon Redd (vocals), Dakota “Shreddly” Amacker (guitar), Adam Cook (bass/vocals), and Chad Wilson (drums). This band is carving out its own niche in the vast landscape of music, and we are here for it. We can’t wait to see what else this band releases in the future, but in the meantime, check out ‘ Frankenstein Mind .' It is now streaming on all platforms. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exDBDYVzX-0 Official Music Video for 'Frankenstein Mind' by Shades of Wisteria To learn more about Shades of Wisteria: Shades Of Wisteria - Band www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Journey into cosmic malevolence with JAELYN's latest single < Back Reviews on the Real: JAELYN Nick Cline Jun 6, 2024 Share Journey into cosmic malevolence with JAELYN's latest single JAELYN is the Philadelphia-based creative endeavor of vocalist Jaelyn Robinson. It focuses on thoughts of the universe, undertones of mental health, the intrigues and meanings of life, and the battles between light and dark. The rest of the band includes Stephen Skilton on guitar, Mattie Boyd on bass, Frank Bianco on drums, and Chris on guitar. The new single, Mire Mite (The Twins) , explores multiple themes and inspirations from art, music, philosophy, and more and is a very enjoyable listen. Released May 31, 2024 Mire Mite (The Twins) takes you on a journey throughout the cosmos, with lyricism that roots you in the emotional tales within the universe of the evil Seven Sisters. In this track, it delves into the relationship between the deadliest members, Mire and his sister Mite. The battle between light and dark is the centerpiece of this mystical and gut-wrenching journey through space, inviting the audience to connect with the story's emotional depth. The mixing of this track is a unique blend of genres, offering a taste of what it is trying to convey. The melodic tones stack on top of the pounding rhythm section, creating a mystical bond between prog-metal, metalcore, and almost operatic versions of pop-punk vocal tones. This fusion of styles is a testament to the creative process of JAELYN , and it's sure to pique the interest of any music enthusiast. The mix is heavily centered on ensuring the lyrics and music are a conjoined being, adding a layer of tension and depth to the song. The verses and chorus share an overbearing tension between the music and the song's story. They convey the ever-present battle between light and dark in the universe and everyday life. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEbnjSYHGv4 The mix for this track is very well put together for both the music and the story's tone within the song. But the music takes up a lot of the space in the track. The vocals take a back seat in the song compared to the music. The mix clashes at times, but the overall sound is excellent. The message is there, but the reliability of the vocals could be felt a lot more if the vocals were pushed a couple of decibels in the mixing and production stage of the song. Other than that, it is a very well-executed track. Mire Mite (The Twins) sets an extravagant tone that excites the audience for future projects connected to the tale this track has started unfolding. The battles and unraveling of the cosmos within its stories will keep just about anybody intrigued until the release of another single and the entire LP. To check out Mire Mite (The Twins) , just hit one of the links below! JAELYN | Sodeh ‎ Mire Mite (The Twins) - Single - Album by JAELYN - Apple Music Mire Mite (The Twins) - song and lyrics by JAELYN | Spotify www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Nick Cline is the powerhouse behind the Louisiana-based band, Phantum Sun , and loves checking out new music. Got something you think he'd like? Email us at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

‘Pitiful’ sets a new direction for the music of XIII Minutes. < Back Reviews on the Real: XIII Minutes ‘Pitiful’ is a Hard-Hitting Reflection on Overcoming Adversity Nicole Brice Oct 30, 2024 Share ‘Pitiful’ sets a new direction for the music of XIII Minutes. Releasing November 1, 2024 , ' Pitiful ' by XIII Minutes is a powerful anthem and is THE perfect song to set a new direction for the band’s music. It's a sound that's hard to compare, and it's a sound that I can't wait to hear more of. We’ll see more of this band in the press in 2025. Just watch. 'Pitiful' releases everywhere November 1, 2024 ' Pitiful ' kicks off with a distant chorus of voices, setting the stage for a unique sound that will pique your curiosity. The song then builds to a thematic climax in the introduction, jamming right out the gate. Melodic lyrics start taking hold when your head nods as the pre-chorus starts in. Crunching guitars, precision drumming that will leave you in awe, and a solid chorus make this song one that you’ll be listening to on repeat in no time. “‘Pitiful’ tackles the topic of addiction (of any form) and shows it for what it is – a trap. There’s something very human about the desire to escape from life’s pain. It’s a relatable feeling, but our goal is to inspire listeners to engage in life in a much deeper and raw way. There is hope in the journey, and we can only begin to understand that hope when we tackle our pain head-on and sober.” I previously reviewed ‘ Cult Leader ,’ which has an entirely different sound than ‘ Pitiful .’ The production on ‘ Pitiful ’ is tight, and the entire song ends with you still wanting more. While the song's brevity leaves you craving more, it also adds to its charm, and is a testament to its quality. “We understand that not everything can be wrapped up in a 3–4-minute song, but despite tackling darker subject matter, we always want to sprinkle seeds of hope in our songs.” XIII Minutes has been around for a while, consistently delivering high-quality melodic rock throughout the years. However, they didn’t come onto my radar until earlier this year. Since then, they've quickly become one of my new favorite bands, especially after their previous release, Cult Leader . https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGHBBX65MAo ‘ Pitiful ’ is a perfectly orchestrated song with textures, rhythm, and soaring vocals. The song will stick with you long after it has finished and resonate with anyone who likes a solid, melodic rock song. “One can never discount what an amazing producer can do to bring ideas to life and help a band funnel them in creating a focused output. In the writing of ‘ Pitiful ,’ we worked with producer extraordinaire Kevin Gates at Reach Audio , who, among others, has produced music by Afroman . Kevin brought out the best in us, and I think this song reflects just how amazing he is.” I’ve listened to ‘ Pitiful ’ five times, and it gets even better each time. If you truly want to enjoy It, might I suggest an excellent pair of headphones? They will make your listening experience much better. Stream ‘ Pitiful ’ everywhere on November 1st . For more information on XIII Minutes : Wikipedia: en.wikipedia.org XIII Minutes - Wikipedia Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/xiiiminutesofficial/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/170qLAyfpGyLLTCu1QcDhL Rottweiler Records: www.rottweilerrecords.com XIII Minutes | Rottweiler Records Bandcamp: thirteenminutes.bandcamp.com XIII Minutes Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xiiiminutesband/ Reverb Nation: YouTube: www.youtube.com XIII Minutes Band After a few years of silence, XIII Minutes is back — reforged as their strongest, hardest-hitting iteration yet. The hard rock band made a name for themselves with their album Obsessed, released in 2019 via Rottweiler Records. The album spawned the track “Who Told You,” which topped Christian rock charts. But life seasons changed, and the band went dark. Until now. “I think the focus on the culture and collective goals is what sets this era apart,” reflects Jamie Kucinski, band founder and drummer. “Through every step and experience, clarity has presented itself. Even during the hiatus, I began to better understand what I wanted to accomplish.” That steady focusing in led Kucinski to recruiting a new lineup in 2023, a lineup united under the common purpose of the band’s culture: a culture defined by hope, community and fun. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90's flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Trust Devoured offers a bold, cathartic journey that demands attention and rewards you with depth and intensity. < Back Reviews on the Real: Exploring Trust Devoured by pMad Nicole Brice Jul 23, 2025 Share Trust Devoured offers a bold, cathartic journey that demands attention and rewards you with depth and intensity. Released July 19, 2025 , Gothic post-punk artist pMad has unveiled Trust Devoured , a captivating new EP that is part of an international music collaboration called Exquisite Corpses . Teaming up with the Australian dark rock band Killtoys and the intercultural cinematic group Lunar Paths , pMad explores a fresh approach to artistic creation—one grounded in rhythm, trust, and transformation. This unique musical endeavor brings together three artists from around the globe to create a project that is greater than the sum of its parts. I always appreciate when bands collaborate, as the results can be extraordinary, and this project is no exception. If you're a fan of music that is just good, you'll love this. Released July 19, 2025 Inspired by the classic parlor game " Exquisite Corpse ," where each participant adds their piece without seeing the previous contributions, the three artists challenged themselves to apply this concept to their songwriting. The result is three EPs that form a rich, atmospheric collection of nine tracks , seamlessly blending their styles, perspectives, and creativity in an unconventional way. Together, they present Trust Devoured , a distinctive contribution to the Exquisite Corpses project by pMad . The title of the EP reflects the thematic thread connecting its source material: "Feed," "Eating for Pleasure," and "Zero Trust Mentality"—all songs deeply rooted in themes of self-consumption, trust, and emotion. Photo provided by pMad "It's a Frankenstein of feelings—each version stitched from the same drumbeat, yet telling a different story." – pMad While each band in the collaboration has released its own EP, we will focus solely on pMad's contribution, the Trust Devoured EP. The result is three deeply personal and emotionally intense tracks: 1. Celestial (feat. Lunar Paths) This track is amazing. The intro sets the perfect stage for the rest of the song. The vocals are spot on, the beat is solid, and every sound meshes beautifully. I love everything about this song. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dCrT8g1aU2k Video for 'Celestial' 2. Closer (feat. Killtoys) This song reminds me of what it would be like if Joy Division and Killing Joke collaborated and Bauhaus added a few notes. It features layered guitar parts with a steady rhythm and haunting vocals that lead you into a tunnel of sound, engulfing you completely. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqFkp3kYgug Video for 'Closer' 3. Feed A smooth groove and a howling guitar create a dreamy and atmospheric sound. The pounding drums and bass build up to a melancholic chorus that throbs and pulses with emotion. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-aYp35GFWA Video for 'Feed' The Trust Devoured EP offers a bold, cathartic journey that demands attention and rewards you with depth and intensity. If you’re craving music that hits hard and inspires , streaming Trust Devoured is essential. To learn more about pMad: linktr.ee pMad | Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Twitch | Linktree New album 'I in Power' out now on Bandcamp & hit singles in all the usual places streamondistro.lnk.to Trust Devoured EP Listen to content by pMad. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Gnashing is carving out a space for themselves in the heart of NOLA’s dynamic music culture. < Back Reviews on the Real: Thieves and Tyrants EP by Gnashing Nicole Brice Feb 4, 2025 Share Gnashing is carving out a space for themselves in the heart of NOLA’s dynamic music culture. Sometimes, music comes onto our radar long after it has been released. It’s the nature of the business these days, with the market being oversaturated with new original music. Today, we review Thieves and Tyrants , an EP released by New Orleans-based band Gnashing on September 15, 2023. Released September 15, 2023 - Click to listen Formed in 2022 in New Orleans, Louisiana, Gnashing's sound is a unique blend of old school death metal , thrash , and black metal . As one of the newer bands on the scene, Gnashing has been steadily booking shows since its inception. The band has performed at Creepy Fest in New Orleans in 2022, The Marsh Room in Metairie, the Intracoastal Club in Houma, Siberia in New Orleans, and many other venues, and the band shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. New Orleans has long been known for its rich musical heritage, and at the core of Gnashing’s appeal is their ability to balance melodic dark beauty with a sense of tension and discomfort. Lyrically, Gnashing explores themes of inner conflict , isolation , and the pursuit of understanding in an increasingly fractured world, creating a layered experience that invites interpretation for each playthrough. Recorded, Mixed, & Mastered by James Whitten of HighTower Recording in New Orleans, Thieves and Tyrants is a rollercoaster ride of melodic death metal with a little groove and thrash thrown in. Gnashing is Chris Lilly (vocals/guitar), Taylor Hinkel (guitar), Erik Haley (bass), and Brennan Ledet (drums). Let’s dive into these tracks, shall we? Metamorphosis – starts heavy straight out the gate—an excellent opening to this EP. Head nodding abounds. Assertive guitars and vocals. It's a great tune to crank up to eleven. The Befallen – nice crispy opening with crunching guitars—this one has a slightly faster pace. Rush to Judgment – my favorite track on this EP. This high-energy song delivers a potent punch to the gut with a blistering pace of aggressive, distorted guitar riffs and pounding drums. Grandiosity rounds out the EP and is a little slower, but once the vocals hit, it puts you in a trance. The song builds and picks up the pace, maintaining this steady vibe of aggression. Thieves and Tyrants is an EP that hits both musically and thematically . We had a few questions for the lead vox of Gnashing, Chris Lilly , and he was kind enough to speak with us. Check out our conversation below. Credit: Facebook MaM : How did you come up with the sound for Gnashing? What led you to play the type of music you play? CL : We never really chose the style we were going for. It just happened organically. I grew up listening to all of the music of the 90s, but it was thrash metal in particular that I found myself very drawn to as a child. As I grew older, I started to rediscover that kind of music and became even more of a melomaniac. From there, I listened to more extreme genres and was heavily influenced by bands like Skeletonwitch , Stormlord , second-wave black metal, and especially Chuck Schuldiner of Death . The rest of my bandmates have similar influences, so our sound was created naturally and unforced. There's something about the darkness of extreme music that I find very intriguing, along with the concept of good versus evil. Within this kind of music, you'll find stories told in ways like no other, and I think there's a beauty in the ugliness of life, which makes for great art and is all a part of the human experience . An appropriate amount of pain, heartache, and suffering is necessary. Just as love, happiness, and joy is as well. The yin and yang concept. Chris Lilly of Gnashing (credit: Facebook) MaM : Walk us through the creative process for your EP Thieves and Tyrants . How did you approach writing each song, and is there a formula you follow when writing music? The title is fitting with all that is happening worldwide currently, right? CL : One of the first songs (titled The Befallen ) I wrote for this project was written before I had any members. I was always writing material and hoping to put together a band one day, and once I met our drummer, Brennan , we started the writing process. We clicked right away, and after the first practice, I knew he was the right person. Our bassist, Erik (former bassist of Drug Money ), was recommended to me by a mutual friend, and our guitarist, Taylor, was recommended to us by Erik, his stepfather. I was the primary writer for those songs, but every member had input, including some parts, such as Taylor's solo on the Metamorphosis track. It's been a group effort putting this EP together, and I would say having good chemistry with your bandmates is a must for a good formula for writing material. It starts with the riffs and how to combine each riff to see what works. Our drummer has helped with the arrangements as well. Yes, the title for our debut episode fits today's world and throughout history. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f2FZUPOEaz4 MaM : Do you have new music in the works, and if so, what theme are you finding is a dominant force in your writing these days? CL : We have new music written and hope to record it this year. We have some work to polish the already-written songs and finish writing new ones. A dominant force of the subject matter would be mostly medieval-themed . MaM : You have quite a few shows coming up in the coming months, but what are your main goals for 2025? CL : Our main goals are to finish the new material, record it, and work hard to ensure our performances are to the best of our abilities. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3SjTZx3m-7s MaM : What key message would you like fans to take away from your music? CL : I don't know that we ever really had a key message for people to take away from our music. It's mainly been a very therapeutic and creative outlet for us, but I hope it will provide the listener with the same enjoyment we get from creating and performing the music. Credit: Ian Ashley Ball As Gnashing continues making their mark on the local music scene and beyond, they stand poised to dominate with an unwavering dedication and organic approach to making music. We look forward to what the future will bring for Gnashing , so be sure to catch them live near you soon so you can experience the sonic abyss of sound only they can create. Upcoming Shows : Saturday, February 22, 2025 - the Intracoastal Club in Houma, LA with Psychic Bastard & EYEHATEGOD . Saturday, March 15, 2025 - Tales From The Riff Festival in Lafayette, LA at The Pic at Epic Performing with Christworm , Writhings , Cemetery Frost , Necromire , and Reptilian War Machine Friday, April 4, 2025 - the Twist of Lime in Metairie, LA for Dio's Legacy: A Tribute to Ronnie James Dio To learn more about Gnashing : Bandcamp: Thieves & Tyrants | 𝔊𝔫𝔞𝔰𝔥𝔦𝔫𝔤 Pandora: Gnashing on Pandora | Radio, Songs & Lyrics YouTube: Gnashing - YouTube Spotify: Gnashing | Spotify Social Media : Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gnashingofficial?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Facebook: Gnashing Official Facebook www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to us at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Shape builds in intensity, with many layers that mesh so well. < Back Reviews on the Real: Shape by Cinder Nicole Brice May 19, 2026 Share Shape builds in intensity, with many layers that mesh so well. Released today, May 19, 2026 , is the latest from the alternative and shoegaze band Cinder , called ‘ Shape ’. Shape begins with just the right amount of fuzz, leading to haunting synths that build in intensity until the song evens out and the vocals come in. A steady groove takes over until the chorus hits. It’s loud, explosive, and perfect. The breakdown at the end really ties it all together, too. Not to mention, Lewis' vocals are so perfect . This is a banger of a tune. It’s got so many layers that mesh so well. Is it shoegaze, grunge, or industrial? You decide. Released May 19, 2026 The band is comprised of Lewis Dean on vocals, Daniel McAuliffe on guitar, Callum Moores on guitar, and Zach Ockmore on drums. Credit: Facebook Originating from Manchester, UK , Cinder is gradually establishing its presence in the underground music scene with a mix of experimental sounds and carefully crafted compositions. Their music offers a unique depth and intensity that can't be ignored — passive listening isn’t possible. Don’t even try. Each Cinder track requires your full focus , immersing you in layered sounds. Being a fan of shoegaze, industrial, and grunge music my entire life, Cinder’s music just hits all the right notes for me, and I hope you will enjoy them as much as I do. Shoegaze meets industrial – that’s Cinder. A healthy dose of both genres creates a well-rounded listening experience with a little grunge thrown in. If you are not familiar with the band, we reviewed their previous tracks, ‘ Impermanence ’ and ‘ Breathing ’, as well as their Vows to Boscobel EP . If you haven’t checked those out, go now. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_UD8kWjRtQ Shape by Cinder ‘ Shape ’ is out now on all streaming platforms, so go give it a spin! It’s just really good. To learn more about Cinder: www.cindernoise.com cindernoise The official website of the band Cinder. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com mixedalternativemag@gmail.com Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

‘Despair’ is a song full of truth. < Back Reviews on the Real: ‘Despair’ by Hawthorne Oachs Nicole Brice Mar 20, 2025 Share ‘Despair’ is a song full of truth. Hawthorne Oachs released her latest musical offering, ‘ Despair ,’ on February 22, 2025, and this track stands out from her usual style. Featuring her soothing, angelic voice, ‘ Despair ’ begins with haunting synths and progresses to a more upbeat tempo than her previous songs. Beautiful guitar parts weave throughout the track, filled with dark imagery that conveys deep meaning. Oachs' lyrics resonate with my soul , making it feel like she is in my mind with this song. Not only is Hawthorne a talented lyricist, but her wisdom shines through in everything she writes. I often find myself lost in an imaginary world while immersing in her music. Released February 22, 2025 - click to listen Lyrically, ‘ Despair ’ addresses the current state of our world and conveys the message that we are doomed to fail unless we unite . In one part, the artist expresses, "We're all in this together, yet we find ways to hate one another. Division will be our downfall." These words could not be more valid. Hawthorne's vocals always make me feel like I’m floating on a cloud, and in ‘ Despair ,’ this feeling continues. With a catchy chorus of "We're trapped, trapped, trapped, and we can't get out," I became wholly consumed by the song due to its powerful lyrics . https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U2Dh0y_XIdc Hawthorne has a way with words, and she speaks the truth , so do yourself a favor and get lost in ‘ Despair .’ It’s out now on all streaming platforms. To learn more about Hawthorne Oachs: Musical Artist | Hawthorne Oachs www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to us at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

We Can Hang is a four-track whirlwind of hooks, riffs, and storytelling. < Back Reviews on the Real: We Can Hang by FOND Nicole Brice Jul 7, 2026 Share We Can Hang is a four-track whirlwind of hooks, riffs, and storytelling. I love it when an album or EP proves me wrong. First, before reading any further, do you like punk rock ? If you answered “yes”, then continue on. Before hitting play on FOND’s We Can Hang , I thought I had a pretty solid idea of where things were headed based on their previous releases, which I had just listened to. Instead, I spent the next twenty minutes constantly recalibrating my expectations by pressing pause and taking in each song fully. By the time I had finished listening to their new EP, I wasn’t just surprised—I was already queuing it up for another listen without pausing. Released on May 1, 2026, We Can Hang EP is packed with four tracks of pure pop punk and alternative vibes. Imagine if Weezer, Social Distortion, and Taking Back Sunday teamed up—that’s basically FOND . Click to listen FOND got its start in 2024 in Alexandria, Virginia , when four friends— Chris (vocals/guitar), Matt (bass), Rob (drums), and Steve (vocals/guitar)—decided to channel their time in the DC, Richmond, and NYC punk, hardcore, and indie scenes into something new. Before releasing We Can Hang , they dropped a few demos and an EP called Complacent , steadily honing that punk-tinged alt-rock sound you’ll hear throughout this record. Credit: FOND Let’s dive into these tracks, shall we? Loserville – this is the opening track, and right from the start, you can tell it’s going to be a good time. The song kicks off with a catchy, jangly guitar riff that immediately grabs your attention. Then, the drums and bass jump in, laying down a solid rhythm that keeps everything moving forward. It’s got this effortlessly cool vibe, with a melody that sticks in your head and a groove that makes you want to nod along. Overall, it’s a super fun way to kick off the EP, and it instantly puts you in a good mood. Peregrine – this track doesn’t waste a single second easing you in. It explodes right into your ears with a full-band jam that feels spontaneous and energetic, like you’ve walked into a party already in full swing. There’s no slow intro here—just pure, unfiltered energy from the first note to the last. The guitars are loud, the drums are relentless, and the whole thing just begs to be played at maximum volume. Seriously, crank it up and let the music take over—it’s the kind of song that makes you want to move around and lose yourself in the moment. No One Can Laugh – this song takes things in a slightly different direction, leaning into a poppier, more alternative vibe while still fitting in perfectly with the rest of the EP. There’s something about the laid-back vocals that gives it a nostalgic, early-90s feel , kind of like The Lemonheads or other classic alt-rock bands from that era. It’s catchy and upbeat, but there’s also a hint of bittersweetness in the lyrics and melody that makes it stick with you. But truth be told, the vocals are more reminiscent of the late, great Mark Lanegan from Screaming Trees . Great song. Find Out – closing out the EP, this track leaves a lasting impression. It’s got driving drums and bold guitar lines that keep the momentum going right up to the very end. Honestly, it’s hard not to love this one; it just wraps up the listening experience in the best way possible. Nod your head, and get lost in the groove. With We Can Hang , FOND doesn’t simply find their footing—they soar beyond it, landing squarely between “this is awesome” and “we need more.” This sophomore EP is a sharp, four-track whirlwind of hooks, riffs, and the kind of honest storytelling that just hits in all the right ways. Each song earns its place, weaving together into a release that’s both raw and irresistible. Go stream it NOW. Where to find FOND: Instagram: FOND (@fondbandva) • Instagram photos and videos Bandcamp: We Can Hang | FOND Spotify: FOND | Spotify Apple Music: ‎FOND - Apple Music YouTube: FOND - YouTube Facebook: Facebook www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Runaway Bunny is an epic tale of strength and resilience. < Back Exploring Escapism: Hawthorne Oachs’ New Single is a Compelling Tale of Freedom Nicole Brice Jun 17, 2024 Share Runaway Bunny is an epic tale of strength and resilience. It’s rare and special when an artist’s music resonates with me on a deeply personal level. I can honestly say that it's been a while since I've been genuinely moved by a piece of music. However, last year, a young artist, musician, and actress captured my attention with her soul-stirring song, ' A Single Flower , ' and I have been a massive fan of hers ever since. Credit: Artist website At just 15 years old, Hawthorne Oachs is a free spirit unafraid to explore the depths of the human experience. Her advocacy for mental health is a testament to her courage and empathy, and her willingness to be raw and vulnerable in her music is truly inspiring. Her transparent, honest, and authentic lyrics have the power to make you think and cry, creating a unique and powerful dynamic in music. With wisdom exuding that of an old soul, Hawthorne’s latest song, released on June 6, 2024, “ Runaway Bunny ”, begins with an 80’s new wave synth vibe that transports you into a dreamlike sequence with angelic and haunting vocals. As the song progresses, the intensity builds, and at 1:48, when the twinkling synths come in, it builds even further until it ends so abruptly that you want more. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cnrd0bbJ9fE This is, without a doubt, my favorite song from Hawthorne Oachs yet, and I cannot wait to see what else she has in store for us in the future. Add this to your list of songs to check out NOW! I recommend going down that rabbit hole if you have never experienced Hawthorne’s music. This is only the beginning for this remarkable young artist. Click the picture to experience "Runaway Bunny". Hawthorne Oachs can be found on: Website : https://www.hawthorneoachs.com Linktree : https://linktr.ee/hawthorneoachs Spotify : Hawthorne Oachs | Spotify YouTube : https://youtu.be/Cnrd0bbJ9fE?si=MJEYDUrrhLcBruOP www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Nick Sabia’s new release “Back East” is a peaceful trek through nature. < Back From Blue Ridge to California: The Musical Journey of Nick Sabia Erica Machen Apr 24, 2024 Share Nick Sabia’s new release “Back East” is a peaceful trek through nature. In the vast landscape of the music industry, it is refreshing to come across an artist with such a unique blend of talent, passion, and dedication that sets him apart from the rest. Nick Sabia is a musician and storyteller who invites listeners on a journey through his day-to-day reflections and cherished memories through the use of vivid stories and relatable lyrics. With numerous releases since 2022, Nick has been steady creating new music, and his newest song, “ Back East ”, is out today on all streaming platforms. From his Blueridge Mountain adventuring roots to his current home in California, Nick Sabia's music reflects a reverence for nature and a longing for authenticity and simplicity in an ever-evolving and changing world. " Back East " was mixed by John Lousteau at the legendary Studio 606 —the home studio of The Foo Fighters —and is a solid and enjoyable track with a deeply personal and introspective journey. After our exclusive early listen to “ Back East ,” we were able to delve into the essence of Nick’s craft, exploring the intricacies of his songwriting process, his personal growth and transformation on his music, and valuable lessons learned from collaborating with industry legends. Throughout his career, Nick has collaborated with luminaries such as Grammy winners Charlie Colin (Train) and Jeff Silbar (Fleetwood Mac, Alabama, Dolly Parton), Grammy nominee Ronnie King (Mariah Carey, Tupac, Snoop Dog), producer Lewis Richards (Dirty Heads), and iconic musicians like Stan Frazier (Sugar Ray) and Lap Steel Legend Gary Brandin . Drawing from these experiences, Nick has honed his craft and embraced a diverse range of influences, from folk-inspired melodies to darker tones reminiscent of Chris Stapleton. We were able to chat with Nick recently about his latest release and much more, so check it out, and then go stream his new song, " Back East " on your favorite streaming platform. Click to experience "Back East". MaM : You’ve been described as a musical artisan, weaving stories through your songs. How do you approach songwriting to create such emotive narratives? NS : I think I shift through things like panning for gold. Some days you find things that aren't quite as potent. But it's more like the continual seeking of it. If I can make it daily, I can't always, but it's usually a daily adventure into myself or into how I'm feeling. And then half of the time, you come out the other side with something potent and really meaningful. Photo provided by artist MaM : You've mentioned embracing change and moving past the ghost of the past. How does your music help you navigate personal growth and transformation? NS : It becomes a daily or pretty consistent thing, like a journal or therapy. It's better for everyone when you're creating, otherwise you feel a burden for not using your gifts. Going through consistency allows you to compartmentalize emotions. I'm pretty emotional, and without music, I'd probably not contain it well. Writing music is cathartic, a way to have catharsis. It's fun, realizing there's more to you than meets the eye. I'm still figuring stuff out at 29, but it's a journey, you know. It's just fun. MaM : I love that. Look, it's okay, I'm 39 and I'm still figuring it out. NS : We all are. No one really gets it. There’s nothing like the high of listening to a song that you just demoed and driving home. I don’t think anything I could ever do could really amp me up the way that amps me up. I live off that high. Photo provided by artist MaM : I noticed you have worked with some industry legends and at renowned studios. What have been some of the most valuable lessons you've learned and from whom? NS : There was a period of time when I wrote with Jeff Car, the old-time cat who wrote "Wind Beneath My Wings." That guy has been writing for 60 years, while it's only been eight or ten for me. He would just sit there, be quiet, and listen to the wind for a second. I soaked in anything I could learn from him. He still takes it step-by-step with how he's feeling that day. Taking a walk was something big when you're stuffed up and need a break or need to figure out a line... He said, "Just go take a walk." MaM : Hey, sometimes simple advice is the best advice. NS : You know, it's like, go take a walk and you'll probably figure it out without overthinking. It becomes an extension of your arm or soul. I learned to let go of overthinking and crafting to fit a mold. Working with these free-flowy folks, they maintain a youthful spirit. Retaining that sense of youth and wonder is vital. Listen to each day, stay receptive, and observe life. Click image for artist's Spotify. MaM : You're often inspired by nature, I've seen, and the places that you love - with "Chattanooga" and then your newest release "Back East". So, how does your connection to nature influence your songwriting process? NS : Quite a bit. The root of it is that nature reminds me I'm a creationist. When I go out, I see creation and I'm just blown away by it. It humbles me and puts me in a still perspective. I feel as though, when I'm out there, that society and all these things are a funny distraction. For me, it's just a way to re-establish my feet on the ground and remind myself that I am significantly insignificant. It's easy to be cooped up in the studio all the time when all I am doing is recording and doing music stuff. It's [nature] just a way for me to really step outside my box and breathe. When I'm really in it, I don't want to hear music. I want to hear the birds. I really use it as a means to fill up my well of inspiration. Knowing I’m going to go back to the city, It's like soaking up the waterfall, the light and the birds. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ingZ0SKZfo MaM : Can you share a bit more about the real-life experiences and the actual places that inspired you and what you want the fans to take away from “Back East”? NS : Since I was four, I've been going to north Georgia, in the Blue Ridge Mountains, to visit my dad. We would go stream hunting, explore abandoned houses, and crawfish in rivers. It was really adventurous. It felt like that Disney type of vibe. California is beautiful in these "pockets." Kind of like Joni Mitchell says-- Tree museums and parks. I'm lucky and have a little slice of a fake country thing here, but I am actually next to the number one grossing mall in America. It was really hectic on New Years Eve of last year, and I just thought "I'd rather wade in a river than wait in a line." I thought, that's a line, a pretty cool line! I just want people to be understood. It's more like a longing for it that I am trying to capture. There's plenty of people out there that long for that, and I feel like it can be a song to remind them of what they love and where they are. Click picture to experience "Back East". MaM : As an artist, and especially with you relocating to California, how do you stay true to your authenticity while also experimenting and evolving creatively? NS : That's such a good question. I would say, a big thing is avoiding boxes. I'm very conscious about the typical thing of putting a person in a box. I get it, I have a beard, I wear this, I have long hair, I'm from the country, I play guitar, I can sing… So, therefore, I am that, you know? I just think that's a very elementary way to look at humans and art. It's really basic. So I try not to. It might be that branding is easier, but if that's my priority, then I'm not in the right mindset. Some days I'm just feeling Mac Miller-ish, I'm in a good mood, and I'm like, "Yeah, let's bop, let's just pop our heads," and I go make a bop, you know? Or I came back from Vegas and make this dark, kind of Vegas-style song, because I was just in Vegas. Credit: Artist website MaM : I love it. It's like a commercialized restaurant versus privately owned and operated. You know, you don't have to limit your menu whenever you have control of that. NS : You can change the menu every week. Some people love the fact that there's a real chef back there doing real artisanal things that's changing the menu every week. I'm definitely leaning into my roots more. Growing up, I watched CMT every day of my life. I definitely love the country, and it is still totally who I am. I just think that it's not all of who I am. Photo provided by artist MaM : Looking ahead, what are your aspirations and goals for your music career? And how do you envision your sound evolving in the future? Do you have a plan for that? NS : I wouldn't say I have a literal plan, but I would say I definitely will branch out because of what we just talked about. I will not allow myself to be one thing. For the near future, for the next few months, it's gonna be the folk and more acoustic. I'm starting to view music more from a producer's lens and say "This studio is great for this flavor, and this studio is great for this flavor," you know, different. I really want to keep it kind of raw too. "Back East" was a raw demo that I made in about an hour, the day after I wrote it. Even if I did redo it, it probably wouldn't be as good, like capturing fireflies. It wouldn't be as honest as it was that day. I'm gonna keep it cohesive. It's gonna be a flow, but it'll amalgamate to some different things down the line. Photo provided by artist MaM : Is there anything you would like to tell us about coming next? NS : In the next couple of songs after this [“Back East”] it's gonna be darker tones, more like Chris Stapleton tone of vocals. It's just a little more intense, and that's kind of fun. Also, there's a remix my friend is doing of "Wearing Down." It's a song I already have out. It should come out about a week or so after “Back East.” It just shows what things could be, I suppose. I do like that it kind of throws people off for a second… Like, "What the heck?” Nick Sabia is an extraordinary musician with a clear vision. With his unique sound and passionate storytelling, I have a feeling he'll be captivating audiences worldwide soon. It is clear that this leg of his musical journey is only the beginning, so keep an eye out for Nick, as he is poised to make a lasting impact on the music scene for many years to come. *cover photo provided by artist For more information on Nick Sabia and his music, visit: www.nicksabia.com Nick Sabia | Americana Alt-Folk Music Nick Sabia is a prolific musician in the Americana / Alt-Folk / Singer-Songwriter genres. #music www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Johnny’s Got a Girlfriend combines a unique, catchy sound with just enough pop sensibility. < Back Reviews on the Real: Johnny’s Got a Girlfriend by Glitter Litter Nicole Brice Apr 17, 2025 Share Johnny’s Got a Girlfriend combines a unique, catchy sound with just enough pop sensibility. Glam rock meets punk rock in the latest track from Sweden’s own Glitter Litter . Released April 17, 2025 , ‘ Johnny’s Got a Girlfriend ’ is a solid release full of nostalgia. This song is definitely worth a listen because of its heavy guitars, distorted vocals, and throbbing basslines. Our very own Nick Cline wrote a review in 2024 about Glitter Litter , and since then, they have remained on our radar. Released April 17, 2025 ‘ Johnny’s Got a Girlfriend ’ has an '80s hair metal vibe. It combines a unique and catchy sound with just enough pop sensibility to avoid being overly pop . It makes perfect sense in my mind! The chorus is infectious and makes me want to nod in rhythm. How would I describe this song exactly? It’s pop-punk infused with '80s hair metal and a touch of glam rock . This could be a great party anthem—it's very upbeat! The single " Johnny’s Got a Girlfriend " is the first release from Glitter Litter’s upcoming new album , which will be released in two parts and eventually compiled into a full-length album. Glitter Litter is a solo project from Sweden featuring Andreas (ex- Sugar Shock ). It is inspired by glam, comics, bubblegum, and '80s happy metal. The project began two years ago, and three EPs have been released under the moniker. Andreas had this to say on the new song, “One day it struck me that two of my favorite songs (by Heart Throb Mob and The Ultras ) both began with the phrase: Johnny’s got/had a girlfriend . Then, naturally, I wanted to write a song with that title, too, as a tribute to those songs. Suddenly, I was struck with the ‘Johnny-syndrome’ and heard and saw Johnny’s everywhere! Thus, the single’s lyrics are also inspired by ‘ Out With the Boys ’ by White Lion (another Johnny song) and the movie, The Outsiders . Musically, I would describe it as bubblegrum glam/punk with touches of happy 80s metal. ” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JH7BfJEMC2k Johnny's Got a Girlfriend by Glitter Litter Go add some new music to your playlists today and stream ‘ Johnny’s Got a Girlfriend .’ It’s worth it because it’s so good. Enjoy! To learn more about Glitter Litter: Website: Glitter Litter - bubblegum glam/punk www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to us at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

This four-piece powerhouse is taking nostalgia to new heights in the thrash metal scene. < Back Reviews on the Real: Megahera J. Heist Nov 1, 2025 Share This four-piece powerhouse is taking nostalgia to new heights in the thrash metal scene. Founded on October 11, 2008, by Sardinian singer and guitarist Mario Marras, Megahera was created from a strong desire to revive the sound and vibe of the 1980s. The name "Megahera" combines "MEGA" (meaning "great") and "Hera" (meaning "era"), reflecting the band's connection to the vibrant period in music history known as the 1980s. Credit: Megahera Drawing inspiration from various 1980s bands, Megahera developed a unique blend of NWOBHM (New Wave of British Heavy Metal) and Bay Area Thrash . Following the release of their demo, the band received praise from both fans and the media. They were invited to participate in the Eventi Metallici Fest , a well-known competition for metal fans in Sardinia , where Megahera won the final session, sharing the stage with special guest Paul Di'Anno , the former vocalist of Iron Maiden . During an active touring period, the band diligently worked on their first album, Metal Maniac Attack , released by My Graveyard Production in 2011 . To promote their debut, the band organized their first Australian tour, called the Insanity Attack Tour , in collaboration with Metal Evilution Organization (Australia), performing a series of shows worldwide. While in Australia, Megahera also released the EP Leather in London . Today, Megahera continue to produce new music, and we would like to recommend them if you're not yet familiar with their work. What do I love more than '80s thrash metal ? Bands that keep the genre alive! I just listened to their song ' Before the Night ' from their debut album, Metal Maniac Attack , and it's an absolute banger. I am hooked. ' Before the Night ' is fast paced from start to finish, with no breaks, making it the perfect song to introduce you to Megahera . The drums are relentless, the vocals are in-your-face, and there are not one, not two, but five guitar solos—count them, five! Who else does that? Megahera does. This song could easily fit on Kill 'Em All , and I bet the guys in Metallica would agree. This four-piece powerhouse is taking nostalgia to new heights in the thrash metal scene. So, check out ' Before the Night ' first as your introduction to Megahera , and then indulge yourself in their latest release, Back to the 80s , which was released on August 22, 2025 . Back to the 80s is a non-stop ride of pure thrash metal goodness. Released August 22, 2025 I just gave you a new favorite band to add to your list, and I promise you won't regret it! Peace, love and music -J Heist To learn more about Megahera: http://www.megahera.net www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Peregrine Stanzas showcases heavy basslines complemented by crispy vocals and exceptional guitar. < Back Reviews on the Real: Exploring Peregrine Stanzas by Andy Connolly Nicole Brice Jul 14, 2025 Share Peregrine Stanzas showcases heavy basslines complemented by crispy vocals and exceptional guitar. Wow! This is incredible! Those were my exact thoughts after I hit play on my iPod to dive into the new EP from Andy Connolly called Peregrine Stanzas . Andy Connolly was born and raised in the suburbs of Boston, where he has navigated his musical journey through various contrasts. He skillfully blends powerful guitar chords with delicate acoustics, showcasing both sides of his musical personality through well-delivered vocals and carefully crafted arrangements. In his fifth solo album, Peregrine Stanzas , Andy has refined this balance of extremes. Andy is more than a musician, though; he’s a songwriter and author, too, with his work currently available for purchase on Amazon . Released May 30, 2025 On Peregrine Stanzas , each song is more enjoyable than the last, and no two songs sound alike . Andy's vocals are extraordinary . Released on May 30, 2025 , Peregrine Stanzas is a 6-song EP that features an exciting mix of pop punk, rock, metal, new wave, and much more . It showcases heavy basslines complemented by crisp vocals and exceptional guitar playing . It’s a fantastic collection of goodness, no lie. With exhilarating highs and reflective lows, it evokes everything from the thrill of speeding to deep contemplation . Listeners should prepare to be transported to an otherworldly musical realm characterized by melodic guitar playing and memorable hooks , all woven into catchy songs that will have you hitting the replay button. Andy has collaborated with renowned musicians, including bass legend Billy Sheehan ( Mr. Big , The Winery Dogs ) and drumming virtuoso Ray Luzier ( KoRn , ex- David Lee Roth Band ), along with many other talented artists and special guests. Peregrine Stanzas draws on familiar sounds while pushing the boundaries of Andy’s unique style. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yp4hIPDQ6zI Peregrine Stanzas Unabridged on YouTube Produced by Dan Kupka and Scott Bush on different tracks, Peregrine Stanzas marks Andy's first solo effort that features contributions from outside writers and session musicians. With outstanding lyrics by Patrick Walsh , Andy composed the music for the breakout single ‘ Rough Diamonds .’ The track is backed by Billy Sheehan on bass and Ray Luzier on drums, making it an enjoyable high-energy song. As for the rest of the album and Andy's future sounds, only time will tell, so stay tuned. Photo courtesy of Andy Connolly Let’s get into these tracks, shall we? ‘ Rough Diamonds ’ is full of energy as soon as the song kicks off. The guitar tone is superb and crisp. It's an excellent song, and everything about it hits. ‘ Dear Tragedy ’ begins with a raw guitar sound that has a rockabilly vibe. Andy's powerful vocals shine through; his voice truly seems made for this genre. The heavy bass kicks in right from the start, giving the song a grunge sound, in contrast to the opening track, which leans more towards pop punk. Overall, this song is fantastic. In ‘ In the Belly of This Whale ,’ the spoken word vocals are potent and give me chills. Andy's voice has a more acoustic vibe, yet it maintains the same intensity as the previous two tracks. He speaks with truth and strength in his words, so it's essential to pay attention. ‘ Taken by the Night ’ has an entirely different vibe compared to the previous three tracks. It reminds me of 80s new wave but with a modern edge. The track features no vocals and is entirely acoustic. ‘ Leave It All Behind ’ starts with an energetic “Heeeeyyy!” that sets the tone for the track. It reminds me of a gritty, grunge-alternative song that is full of charisma and oozes with it. ‘ Taken by the Night (Dr. DK Remix) ’ reminds me of the remix of ' Torn Apart ' by Stabbing Westward for the Spawn soundtrack . This remix jams and offers a unique take on the original track , adding more of a groove. It would be an excellent addition to a video game soundtrack. Peregrine Stanzas is an EP that is worth checking out and adding to your collection. It is well-crafted and showcases a great deal of diversity. It's best enjoyed by listening to all the songs in the order they appear, preferably with headphones on. Be sure to stream it today! To learn more about Andy Connolly: Website: http://andyconnolly.com All links: Peregrine Stanzas by Andy Connolly - DistroKid www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Last Legs' new single “Tara” is rooted in the real experience of American youth with stories of love, loss, and desperation that pull at your heartstrings. < Back Last Legs: New Wave Americana for a New Era Nicole Brice Jan 5, 2024 Share Last Legs' new single “Tara” is rooted in the real experience of American youth with stories of love, loss, and desperation that pull at your heartstrings. In an era marked by fleeting trends and a fast-paced musical landscape, new tunes are constantly being released, leading to an oversaturated market full of creatives wanting to showcase their craft. But I have discovered a band I feel will emerge as an up-and-coming force in the indie music scene due to their talent, drive, and emotionally charged lyrics full of imagery and soundscapes. Hailing from the Garden State of New Jersey, this vibrant five-piece rock band’s sound hints at New Wave and Americana while exploring themes from the 70s and 80s amongst a backdrop of folky, narrative-based lyrics rooted in realism. Their stories of love, loss, and desperation pull at your heartstrings and their poignant lyrics are known to bring on the tears. So, who is this band? They go by the name Last Legs. Formed in 2019, Last Legs is comprised of a lifelong group of seasoned musicians with an extensive history of over 20+ years rooted in the local Asbury Park music scene. Last Legs emerged from the ashes of notable indie bands Lowlight and Roadside Graves when various members wanted to create more material, but under a new moniker. Derril Sellers plays guitar while his wife Dana handles the keyboards and contributes vocals. Colin Ryan is the man with the plan on drums and percussion, Rey Rivera plays the bass and does all the MPC drum programming, and John Gleason is the lyricist and lead vocals bringing it all together. The band recently released a cover of REM’s “ Nightswimming ”, which is quite remarkable. The Last Legs version is rearranged, reinterpreted, and sounds nothing like the original. The band has orchestrated a beautiful take on a classic song, one worth noting. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEsY4M8mhd4 Fresh off recording their four-song demo EP, the band released their new song “Tara”, which is out today, and it is the first original song by Last Legs to be released on all streaming services. It’s also the perfect introduction to the band’s music. If you’ve had the pleasure of seeing them perform live, you’ve probably heard vocalist John Gleason explain, “These are songs of love, loss, and desperation, and every word is true.” Click the picture to experience "Tara" “Tara” contains lyrics that set the template for much of Last Legs’ music by telling a story that is rooted in the real experience of American youth : “When I was young, I ran away”. The song is visceral and specific, allowing listeners to feel the desperation of a life out of your control and going all wrong. The need to escape is real and earned when you hear the chorus: “You can take me anywhere, as long as it’s away from here”. Musically, “Tara” is a two-parter. Synth-driven the whole way through, the band is surprisingly intricate and fluent. The personal and detailed lyrics lead you to expect a country-folk arrangement, but the 80’s influence here is undeniable. This is New-Wave Americana. The first half is catchy, syncopated, and almost danceable. At the bridge, the band opens into a rolling, expansive vamp as John drives home the helplessness of childhood and the end of naivety . “Tara” is that time in our lives when we lose the sensitive, vibrant life force of childhood and become grey, unfeeling adults. “You can watch the way I crumble; watch the way I disappear”. Indeed. Credit: Jeff Crespi Last Legs is currently working on a full-length album to be released later in 2024, so stay tuned. Mixed Alternative was able to sit down and chat with the entire gang recently to discuss what makes their interpretation of “Nightswimming” so amazing, what their future holds, and more. Check out our conversation below, and then check out their new single, “Tara”. We think you’ll love these guys as much as we do. MaM: Thank you for speaking with us today. Let’s dive right in. Where did the band name come from? Colin : A huge Google doc. It was back and forth for months. We all liked the name Last Jumps that John came up with. John was going to say it one day and flubbed and said Last Legs instead. Everyone liked the name, so it stuck. John : We also like the meaning behind it because it stands for the last leg of the journey as well. It could be positive or negative. Dana : Our music explores the themes and topics of death, grief, etc. and I think it suits the music, too. Credit: Jeff Crespi MaM : Your cover of “Nightswimming” is incredible because it sounds nothing like the original song. Had I not known that it was by R.E.M., I would have thought it was a new track. How did your cover of it come about? John : It was my selection because we went back and forth with many songs and I’ll be honest, I’m not an R.E.M. fan, but “Nightswimming” is the one R.E.M. song that hits me in the ways the music of Tom Waits and Leonard Cohen does. I thought that the song was so perfect and beautiful and there is no way we should cover it and try to sound exactly like them. I don’t feel that is an interesting way to do a cover song anyway unless you are playing it at a bar where people want to hear the song sound exactly like the original. The thought was that we wanted to mess it up by changing the lyrics, the tempo, and the style, and I think we achieved what we set out to do. And the fact that you like it is great. The main thing we did with “Nightswimming” was we took the bridge and made the whole song out of that bridge because we loved the chord progressions there. Dana : Yeah, we swapped the music from the bridge of the original song with the music of the main hook—the piano part—and that just seemed to work. I think as artists we are willing to experiment and drop any kind of bias of how things should be. I do think that it’s cool how we got it to tether back to the original song by flipping the bridge and the verse. Derril : The reason we did that, to begin with, is because our record label, Mint 400, does a compilation of songs from a certain decade every year and every band on the label chooses a song for the compilation. The decade this time was the 90s, so this was our choice. Credit: Jeff Crespi MaM : As I was listening to the demo you sent me, I was thrown into 80’s nostalgia overload and wanted to ask you about the creative process of writing music. How do you approach that? Dana : Some songs start with a kernel of an idea from a particular band member, but then some happen because John will start singing something and then we’ll build the song around that, but a lot of the songs do come together in a rehearsal or a setting where we are all together. During the pandemic, we got good at working together remotely and that got us accustomed to playing together even when we weren’t. We still send each other phone demos, too, where I’ll come up with something on the piano and then I’ll send it out. I think something we want to try with the upcoming record is to change the process because I think the process will dictate what the song ends up being. The process gives you an environment to work in so you can do different things. John : We have a song on the demo called “I’ve Been Loved” that we went through almost ten different versions before we ended up on the one that is on the demo, and each one was good, but it was just not hitting perfectly right until we got to the final version. Some songs kind of just come together and some are more involved in the process to get to the result. Credit: Jeff Crespi MaM : Currently, who is inspiring you musically and why? Derril : I’ve been going through a musical and fashion renaissance, and I’ve been copying off Warren Ellis. I’m trying to grow into him these days and I’ve been following him a good bit. Dana : Since I play keys, I like the work of Brian Eno. The 80’s vibe you hear is because of me. I use a lot of 80’s keyboards and I have a Roland Juno 60—an original one—that I’ve played for many years. It just sounds great, but I recently stopped gigging with it because it just seems abusive to the instrument. I love music from that decade…all the post-punk stuff. We’ve been listening to the new Andre 3000 flute album, too, and it’s amazing. Sounds and texture are what I gravitate towards. Colin : John and I just went to see Mary Lattimore recently at a church in Philadelphia. John is a fan, but I had never heard of her before. I’ve been listening to a good bit of her stuff trying to get caught up on it all because it’s really good. John : She’s a harpist and she uses a loop pedal and it’s magical. If you like ambient music, you’ll love it. It’s melodic ambient music. For me, lately, it’s been singer/songwriter Damien Jurado. I’ve been listening to him since the mid-90s because he continues to put out compelling challenging and beautiful records. Credit: Jeff Crespi MaM : What are your plans for the future of the band? Last Legs : More people crying at shows. (laughter) Dana : We love traveling and we would love to be the opening act for artists we admire to connect with an audience and fans. We love creating music and our goal is to release our record in 2024 either with a label or independently. We now have this democratization of the music industry where anyone can reach their fan base if they do a certain thing in a certain way. Hopefully what we are doing will be infectious and other people will pick up on it. That’s our goal and we look forward to the rest of 2024. Be sure to follow Last Legs on social media and check out their tunes. All that tugging at your heart strings will be worth it! Instagram : Last Legs (@lastlegsmusic) • Instagram photos and videos YouTube : LAST LEGS "Nightswimming" (R.E.M. Cover) - YouTube Apple Music : ‎Last Legs - Apple Music *cover photo by Jeff Crespi www.jeffcrespirocks.com JEFFCRESPIROCKS See through a different lens! www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

‘Road Dog’ is a toe-tapping, finger-snapping, and hand-clapping tune full of rhythm. < Back Reviews on the Real: ‘Road Dog’ by Jared Daws is a Gritty Anthem for the Highway Wanderer Nicole Brice Mar 21, 2025 Share ‘Road Dog’ is a toe-tapping, finger-snapping, and hand-clapping tune full of rhythm. Southern-based artist Jared Daws has released a new track titled ‘ Road Dog .’ This spirited song, which debuted on March 14, 2025 , is filled with rhythm that makes you want to tap your toes, snap your fingers, and clap your hands. The track begins with a hauntingly beautiful instrumental guitar melody and evolves into a strong rhythm once the lyrics come in. Jared's vocal delivery gives me chills due to the power of his voice. As the song progresses, a noticeable groove develops, and Jared's vocals become increasingly soulful and poignant. Once the tempo picks up, it doesn't slow down. I found myself nodding my head the entire time I listened to this song. As the tune begins to fade, the pace slows down, with Jared delivering the final words: "I'm a road dog." Produced by Pat Lyons of Colter Wall 's band and featuring Greggory Garner of Sam Barber 's band on bass and Matty Myers of Sierra Ferrell 's band on drums, ' Road Dog ' celebrates the open road's enduring charm and a traveling musician's life. Rooted in classic country music, it captures the essence of a nomadic lifestyle that resonates with many of us, both musically and lyrically. This is a solid tune you must hear, and I am absolutely in love with it. Released March 14, 2025 - click to listen Don't miss out on the experience of ' Road Dog .' Stream it today and discover why I'm so enamored with this track. I guarantee you'll love it as much as I do. The official music video is also out today via YouTube . Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UyvcMB1MR1U Official video for 'Road Dog' by Jared Daws To learn more about Jared Daws: Jared Daws | Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Cutting straight into the bone of the Saw franchise, John Kramer confesses his own despair and exposes himself as a radical nihilist. < Back The Philosophy of John Kramer and the Saw Franchise, Part 4: Film Analysis Ezekiel Kincaid Oct 31, 2023 Share Cutting straight into the bone of the Saw franchise, John Kramer confesses his own despair and exposes himself as a radical nihilist. We’re back, folks, with our fourth and final lesson in John Kramer’s philosophical nihilism. I hope you’ve enjoyed the journey, and I hope it has at least made you think, along with challenging your perception of the Saw franchise. For today’s blue-collar philosophy lesson, we are going to look at radical nihilism and how John Kramer (Tobin Bell, of Finders Keepers ) fits that rubric. Let’s go ahead and jump in, shall we? Radical nihilism can be summed up as a “destructive” philosophy. What I mean by that is this: A radical nihilist usually has no loyalties, believes in nothing, and sees their purpose as to destroy. This is because they have a dissatisfaction that comes from their recognition that they live in a world where their ideal values will never exist. The “world as it is” is the greatest hindrance to the radical nihilist, so much so that they seek to negate and destroy its inherent moral, religious, and political values so their own can flourish. Now, let’s apply this paradigm to John Kramer in the Saw franchise. Can his ideal of “appreciating life” exist in the world as it is? Another pertinent question we need to raise concerns Jigsaw’s aim: Is it really to change others or to change the world by destroying others? Because, as a radical nihilist, the only way to bring change is through destroying what is. I am going to argue that John Kramer’s goal is not to incite true change in others, but to annihilate others, thus changing the world as is . A good example of this is Amanda (Shawnee Smith, of Anger Management ). She is proof positive that Jigsaw cannot change people’s value system. For those of you unfamiliar with the franchise, Amanda is Kramer’s first survivor. She becomes the case study and poster girl for Jigsaw that his therapy “works.” However, as the story unfolds throughout the Saw franchise, it becomes abundantly clear she is not “cured.” Amanda with Jigsaw, courtesy of Lionsgate Kramer then takes it upon himself to retest Amanda. The fact he has to do this proves his methods of rehabilitation are sorely inadequate. Amanda herself even agrees with this failure and says, “Nobody is reborn.” This all takes place in Saw III (2006) and, moments later, is followed up by Jeff’s willingness to kill Jigsaw. Speaking of Jeff (Angus Macfadyen, of Equilibrium ), let’s look at him for a moment, and then we’ll jump back to the scene mentioned above. In Saw III , Kramer asks Jeff to view Danica (Debra McCabe, of People of Earth ) and Timothy (Mpho Koaho, of Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency ) as people who made mistakes rather than people who contributed to the death of his son. Jeff ends up failing to obtain this outlook and failing to rescue them from their traps. But not to worry, Kramer, our scholar on humanity, has factored in Jeff’s failure for the overarching game. Danica herself exposes the test’s very premise when she says, “I made a mistake … I’m human.” Jeff, too, is only human, and he will make mistakes leading to the death of others, which he does. Jeff then becomes a synecdoche for everyone involved in the game , including Jigsaw and Amanda. But it goes deeper. Jeff serves a larger purpose. He isn’t Kramer’s test subject, all of humanity is. There was never any chance Jeff’s values or perspective would change. He, like Kramer and everyone else, is flawed by belonging to the world as it is. Let’s jump back to the scene in Saw III with Jeff, Kramer, and Amanda, where Jeff is wanting to kill Kramer. In coming face-to-face with the inadequacy of his own methods, and Jeff’s desire to kill him, Jigsaw asks Jeff, “You haven’t learned anything tonight, have you?” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=asjTYMUwYTc Like Amanda, Jeff is being retested. And, like Amanda, Jigsaw cannot change his values. The list goes on as we examine other movies in the Saw franchise. Art (Louis Ferreira, of Stargate Universe ) survives his mausoleum trap. Does he learn anything? Has he changed? Nope. In Saw IV (2007), he becomes the head of another game where he dies. In Saw II (2005), Eric (Donnie Wahlberg, of Blue Bloods ) fails his test but not all is lost. He proves his willingness to survive and live by escaping. This should be it for Eric, shouldn't it? But it’s not. He then becomes bait in the same trap that ends up killing Art. All in all, Amanda ends up being right when she states in Saw III , “Nobody changes.” But what about Kramer, the very one who has instituted this form of rehabilitation? A big NO on that as well. Those of you who have seen the movies, recall with me, if you will, John Kramer’s statement from Saw II where he says he is “unfixable.” And there we have it, folks, right in front of our faces. Kramer’s own words scream at us the radical nihilist’s confession of despair. No one is fixable, so the entire damn system needs to burn. Jigsaw is sick and tired of it all. He is tired of the current world-as-it-is value system. He is sick of people not appreciating their lives because of this system. But people can’t change, not even with his method; therefore, it must all be destroyed. Let’s go back to the original Saw (2004) for a moment. There’s a scene in there where Detective Tapp (Danny Glover, of Lethal Weapon ) says to Kramer he is “sick” but he’s not referring to his cancer. Kramer’s response is telling. He states he is “sick of those who don’t appreciate their life” and he is “sick of those who scoff at the suffering of others.” And then comes the ultimate culmination and confession of Jigsaw: He says he is “sick of it all.” To put that in nihilistic terms, he is sick of the world and the current state of existence. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jk_PzaM41xc What about Kramer’s cancer? His physical illness? Does it play a part in this? Oh, absolutely. Jigsaw’s destructive nature displayed in his games is intricately tied to his terminal illness. Thus, the only true change Jigsaw institutes in any of his traps is devastation. The games he subjects people to are not capable of changing anyone’s values. Kramer’s aim is much more simplistic: to destroy the world as is. In closing, I want to examine one more phrase from Kramer that highlights his radical nihilism, and it is probably one of the most important phrases in the franchise. In Saw IV , Kramer states, “If the subject survives my method, he or she is instantly rehabilitated.” Yet, as we have seen above, this is far from the truth. As a radical nihilist, Jigsaw’s values remain intact despite evidence to the contrary, and despite the impossibility of those ideals ever becoming a reality in the world as is. This also answers the question as to why, even if people survive, Jigsaw just puts them in another game to die anyway. It is because destruction is the chief end—the obliteration of the world-as-it-is value system. There is much more to unpack when it comes to the philosophy of John Kramer—so much more, in fact, that even passive and radical nihilism fail to cover it. This means while Kramer fits these paradigms, there are also aspects of him that do not. Those points are beyond the scope of these articles. However, seeing much of Kramer through the lens of passive and radical nihilism does shed light on his madness and gives us a background to understand some of the seeming contradictions that are evident throughout the movies. Before I end, I want to sum up a few things. First, radical nihilism embraces the impossibility of change. Second, when we examine passive and radical nihilism, especially in John Kramer, we see the two are intertwined. Nihilists like Kramer rely on their view of the world as it is being the non-ideal of existence. This is the only way they can understand existence. There is a deep conflict between the world-as-it-is view and the world-as-it-ought-to-be view. Jigsaw’s world view is one where he gives into destruction in order to institute change. He has wholeheartedly given himself over to the belief that people are predictable. Thus, he allows them to be human, to keep their current value system and ultimately doom themselves. There is a deep irony existing inside John Kramer. With all of his destructive games, he still relies on the world existing as it is while also being the source of his own dissatisfaction in life. Because Kramer will never fulfill his goal of total destruction, as a nihilist, his own life will have no purpose either. credit: Lionsgate Entertainment And there you have it, my friends. I hope you’ve enjoyed this little discourse into the Saw franchise, and I plan on bringing you more thought-provoking pieces in the future. Until then, stay tuned for more fantastic upcoming B-movie reviews in my current series What the Hell Did I Just Watch . Catch y’all on the flip flop. Happy Halloween, my friends. Now go watch some Saw movies! Ezekiel Kincaid lives for horror and loves to watch it, write about, and talk about it, whether that be in his own horror novels or in reviews. His experience as a pastor and paranormal investigator brings everything he writes to life. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Old favorites mixed with the new. < Back Nick's Corner: Playlist Picks for August 23rd Nick Cline Aug 23, 2024 Share Old favorites mixed with the new. Oh, it's that time again! It's time for another entry into ‘ Nick's Corner ’. This time, I will be throwing some sounds around in your playlist suggestions that wouldn't normally go together. Each song will be drastically different from the last, but they will all bring some great noise to your eardrums. 1 End Zone by Brewster Durbin Deets about the track : First up on the chopping block is Brewster Durbin's ‘ End Zone .’ End Zone creates an extensive indie rock atmosphere washed in synths, pop-driven drums, slightly distorted guitars, and bass riffs that keep you tight into a groove and provides any indie music fan with an atmospheric and enjoyable addition to your playlist. This song is also a nice “middle-ground” introduction to Brewster Durbin's discography, which is based heavily on pop ideology with modern twists ranging from funk, rock, alternative, and indie. 2 Fume Disease LIVE by The Black Smokes Deets about the track : Next, we have The Black Smokes and their killer track, ‘ Fume Disease - Live .’ This track will hit every nerve in your ears, especially if you enjoy crunchy tones and high-energy rock-n-roll. It has reminiscent energy of Led Zeppelin , Aerosmith , AC/DC , but it imbues the classic energy and sounds with the soul of deep south blues. 3 4th of July by Soundgarden Deets about the track : The next entry in your monthly recommendations is full of chugging, dark, and haunting melodic tones. ‘ 4th of July ’ by Soundgarden can be a welcoming addition to anybody's playlist. It is full of screaming vocals, dark and sludge-filled riffs, and lyrics grounding you in the demons of one's mind. This track is one of the deeper cuts on the monumentally classic album Superunknown , but it is one of its biggest heavy hitters. If this track excites your ears and soul, then check out the full album and the entire Soundgarden discography. 4 316 by Van Halen Deets about the track : Van Halen's ' 316 ' is a beautiful and melodic instrumental track from the band's 1991 album, For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge . It is dedicated to Eddie Van Halen 's son, Wolfgang . The track was made to celebrate his birth, eventually leading to a great album addition. It also makes a welcoming addition to your chill playlists. 5 Wanting You by Gypsy La Blue Deets about the track : The last entry in this month's edition of Nick's Corner is the slow blues jam track, ‘ Wanting You ’ by Gypsy La Blue . This band is a local powerhouse in the blues, soul, and rock scenes, and this track is a standing example of their combined showcase of talent. The vocals are soulful and passionate, reminiscent of exceptional vocalists like Ann Wilson of Heart and Stevie Nicks of Fleetwood Mac . The music tackles the same vibe, which adds to the acquired depth of the track. ‘ Wanting You ’ is an excellent addition to your playlist if you are looking for that hit of soul with some rock and blues from the local scenes. This is Nick's Corner's August entry. I'm out! I hope you have enjoyed my recommendations. Until next time! Nick Cline is the powerhouse behind the Louisiana-based band, Phantum Sun , and loves checking out new music. Got something you think he'd like? Email us at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Christina Binns < Back Flowers, Glitter, and Resin, Oh My! Nicole Brice Oct 29, 2022 Share Christina Binns You may not have heard of the name Christina Binns in the Art world YET , but you WILL . Putting her entire heart and soul into what she creates, this chicka knows how to merge the aesthetic of beauty and fragility into pieces worth having in your collection and showing off. I first met Christina , or Christi as I know her, when we had an honors English class together freshman year of high school. Christi had some wicked style, even back then, and I can remember her always having the latest and greatest fashions from the Delia*s catalog, which I always seemed to be lusting over. Lucky for me, though, Christi and I hit it off, become best friends, and then I had access to that same great fashion she paraded up and down the halls of our high school. With a knack for combining colors, textures, and styles, her fashion sense trickled over into her artwork, and throughout the years even though we may be miles apart, I have never forgotten how awesome this girlie is, and now, I would like to bring her art to you, the readers of Mixed Alternative Magazine . Art by Christina Binns Recently, Christina and I had a chance to chat, and I threw some questions her way, which she did not disappoint in answering. Get to know this incredible visualist and artist and then check out her work and buy something. You’ll want to buy everything because it is ALL phenomenal. In fact, in choosing the images for this piece, I had a hard time narrowing it down, so when you get to the bottom of this article, you MUST check out her work on social media. Christina Binns MaM : What age did you notice you had the art gene and a need to create? I remember you taking Art classes in high school, but never really asked you about your creations. Also, too, for the longest time, I had all the drawings you made me saved in a drawer at my mom’s house. It’s true. I wonder where those are now. Hrmm. CB : Well, I’ve been creating since before I can remember. I’ve always had a vivid imagination, still do. As a kid, I’d conjure up these elaborate stories & add my own illustrations. I was always doodling. I’m always in my “happy place” when I’m making things, always have been. Whether from my writing or my art, no matter the method, when I’m creating, that’s when I’m most fulfilled. So, to answer your question, the need to create has always been present. MaM : Thinking back, do you remember the first piece of art you ever created? CB : Oh man, the FIRST piece ever?! Where’s my memory when I really need it… well, since I can’t recall the 1st ever (that’d of been at a single-digit age), how about I go with a couple that really stuck with me through the years, both wooden creations. One was to be a box that opened & closed, the other a functioning mobile, with fully moveable parts. I’ll start with the box. Decided I was making a ladybug box, with wings on top that opened to reveal an itty-bitty cavity for tiny treasures & such. So, we all know ladybugs are round, right? Well, cue the naysayers – and I quote, “You can’t make a box round. That won’t work – it doesn’t even make sense!” Challenge accepted and annihilated – BOOM! You know I had to make the bug box & yes, she is filled with tiny what-nots & she’s perched on my shelf in my art room. For the mobile, I made a waving dude, whose arms, hands & head were moveable. Picture an upper body, shoulders/arms on up, cartoon-style, crazy wavin’… I think I gave him a bowtie too. Good times. No clue where he went, but I’m pretty sure I gave him to somebody, maybe my brother – who knows. Wherever he went, he sure was awesome. Both projects were just before I hit my 20’s. While they weren’t early in my art days, they both helped me to really hone in on that imagination of mine. Making these 2 things happen just as I had dreamt up, that only further solidified what I already assumed: If I can imagine it, I can probably make it happen, I can DEFINITELY try! Thinking you can do something is half the battle, so if you truly believe in you, then you’re already halfway there. Art by Christina Binns MaM : If you had to pick one piece as your favorite, what would it be? Give us the deets, sista. CB : My absolute favorites, as of now, would have to be a tie between 2 completely different pieces, both of which are displayed in my home. One is a giant pair of _x_ gallery-wrapped canvases that I painted, embellished with broken glass and added resin to. There’s just something about the soft, muted colors I used, mixed with the sheer size of them. I often stare at them with the same admiration as when I 1st made them & they’re a regular topic of conversation when someone visits. So delicate-looking thanks to the colors & design, yet slightly dangerous, courtesy of the jagged-edged, broken shards of glass poking out from the resin. My other fave is the 2nd cold porcelain sculpture that I ever made. Roughly 100 individually hand sculpted flowers & leaves flow over the edge of an 8x10 gesso panel. I left it unpainted simply because I love the way it looks. Truth be told, I really impressed myself with this piece. It encouraged me to take the plunge into the world of cold porcelain. I was in love… with hand sculpting! Art by Christina Binns Funny story, I stumbled across this medium by accident (or maybe fate, who knows) when making a magnolia flower piece for my sweet momma. I knew I wanted 3D flowers coming up from the canvas but was struggling with what to use to get that effect, that could still be painted. After doing a ton of research & speaking to some other sculptors in the clay world, I landed on cold porcelain, an air-dry clay that’s nearly translucent when completely dry. Picked up the supplies & made the most gorgeous piece with 3 life-size magnolias and several leaves, on canvas that I painted & added a few layers of resin to. I painted the canvas this ridiculously pretty blue, so after adding the resin, it looked as if the magnolias were floating on water. As they say, the rest is history! MaM : So, I know you have another gig to pay the bills, so where do you call home these days and what are you doing when you are not creating art? CB : Currently, I live in Cypress, TX, just outside of Houston. I’m an artist at heart, always, so I don’t really have set hours, since I wear a few other hats as well. I’ve been a licensed Realtor in Louisiana since 2007 (with Realty Executives South Louisiana Group) and in Texas since 2020 (with Fathom Realty). Additionally, I work remotely as a CRM (Client/Customer Relationship Manager) & Email Marketing Coordinator for a Washington state realty firm (since 2019). This side hustle allows me to work on my marketing skills, as well as my creative/content writing capabilities, which comes in quite handy for all those hats I wear. I also wrote a yet-to-be-published book that I plan to self-publish. One of these days I’ll jump off that fence & make it happen! Art by Christina Binns MaM : Give us some info about life over the years and your fave medium to use in creating pieces. It’s been forever since high school even though it seems like just yesterday. CB : I live in the burbs with my wife Sequence & our 2 dogs Cooper (pointer lab) & Cole (Pug). I moved here in 2019 after Sequence’s corporate ladder-climbing landed her in the Houston area. We also lived near Atlanta, GA for a few years, but most of my life was spent in Louisiana, split between Baton Rouge & Prairieville. I worked in retail management for many moons, primarily in shoe sales. When I was in Georgia, I worked in Recruiting for a minute, before eventually moving back to my home state. From there, I was office manager for the Louisiana brokerage I’m licensed with, for a few years, before making the Texas leap. Let’s see, some other facts about me… I’m a damn good cook, I’m a water baby through & through (stick me with my family, friends and all the pups, plop us near a lake/river/beach & let us be, lol). I love a good documentary & I’m still a cartoon fanatic, even at 40. Art by Christina Binns I like my music loud, a bass junkie, if you will. I’m eclectic when it comes to music, I like everything except country. Ok, ok, I do like some country, but that’s a limited category for me. Now, as far as what’s on the turntables, that’s likely to be drum ‘n bass or jungle, a little EDM, a lot of old school rock & rap and the occasional comic relief (listening to Richard Pryor on vinyl is a whole experience). Like I said, eclectic. Being a mixed media artist, I use so many different mediums, it’s hard to pick a favorite. I think my answer to that depends on the day. I can say that I can always get down with a paint session, no matter what’s going on. I’m a painter, sculptor, woodworker, mold-maker, card maker, sewist (seamstress, if you’re old school), wood burner, soap maker and resin artist, all wrapped into one. I’m no one-trick pony, that’s for sure! I enjoy trying new things all the time - I think it keeps me sharp, you know! Thinking outside the box, being open to trying new styles & mediums & being ok with something not turning out as planned… I do these things regularly. Some of the materials I like to incorporate into my artworks: paint, wood, dried flowers, resin, genuine crystals & stones, broken glass, alcohol inks, gold leaf, cold porcelain, silicone, cardstock, gold foil. Art by Christina Binns As far as canvases go, I like to use everything from gallery-wrapped canvases and wood panels, to old scratched up vinyl records. If I can repurpose something that would have otherwise been discarded, that’s a bonus. Giving new life to a would-be trash item, to me, that’s something special. All the vinyl I use are retirees from my personal record collection of over 1,000. I try to keep them in the rotation, pun intended, especially since I have them in such abundance. No matter the artwork I’m creating, if I can reuse something lying around for it, I take every opportunity to do so. On that note, any time I do a paint pour, I make multiple pieces from one single pour. That excess paint can be stretched far, helping me to be more time-efficient in my creative process by cranking out several pieces at once. The same goes with any resin projects. The more I can make with a single batch of product, the better! MaM : I’m sure there are other artists out there you admire. Please tell us who and why. CB : Hmmm… yet another toss-up for this one. It’d have to be between Daniel Popper & Gil Bruvel, both incredible artists, both with a focus on 3-dimensional art. Neither of them ceases to blow my mind with their creations. Daniel has these other-worldly sculptures of massive proportion, on display all over the world, in some of the most breath-taking places. Next time I’m in Mexico, I have GOT to remember to hit up his Tulum sculpture, “Ven a la Luz”. It’s a bucket list item, for sure. Then there’s Gil, who uses thousands of individual wood pieces to create these unbelievable faces, also on a larger scale. The skill & talent these guys possess is unreal. They’re both incredible at their craft. Art by Christina Binns To check out and purchase some of Christina’s amazing art, you can visit her on social media at: Christina Binns | Facebook Christina Binns (@b__christina) • Instagram photos and videos www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link