Paint it Clear (2021)
Over the past 4 years, Alien Nosejob has proved to be one of the most dynamic artists across Australia’s expansive DIY punk scene. After exploring two very different sides of the genre last year, the one man band returns with a focus in synth-driven power-pop. Paint it Clear is both a shift and evolution for Alien Nosejob, proving that the multi instrumentalist has a reach that continues to extend far beyond one style.
Switched on Ra (2021)
Over the course of the past decade, Bitchin’ Bajas have built their analog synth drone sound upon a foundation of archetypal experimental music. On their glowing sixth LP, Switched on Ra, the trio covers eight Sun Ra essentials, and reconfigures the jazz giant’s limitless free jazz into psychedelic ambient compositions.
Hidemi (2021)
Jazz saxophonist, Patrick Shiroishi, has created a career exploring the history of Asian-American oppression. On his latest album, Hidemi, Shiroishi delivers one of his most personal albums to date, with a focus on his grandparents and their time spent in a Japanese internment camp circa World War II. Hidemi incorporates the healing power of spiritual jazz as Shiroishi travels through his family’s resilient history.
Galloping Through a Wormhole (2021)
Parlour Tapes co-owner, Zach Moore, has a background as a trained double bassist, and has frequented Chicago’s performance art circuit as a member of Mocrep. On his solo debut as ZM, Moore masterfully performs a wide variety of genres over the span of a spectacular 64 minute composition. Galloping Through a Wormhole unfolds gracefully while fluctuating between large instrumental arrangements and layers of tranquil minimalism.
WEWEREFRIENDS (2021)
On WEWEREFRIENDS, experimental noise mastermind RXM Reality shifts his sound from extreme abrasiveness and replaces it with drawn out layered vocals and cohesive song writing. It’s his second album of the year, and reveals an unexpected emotional and more human side of his unique compositions.
Luminol (2021)
Multi-instrumentalist Madeline Johnston’s catalog is comprised of several albums that primarily examine themes of tragedy, grief, and mortality. Her most recent record as Midwife explores her past year in a state of tense isolation throughout the pandemic. Luminol effortlessly combines elements of shoegaze, post-rock and hints of ambient music a cross six emotional tracks.
a softer focus (2021)
On her new album, a softer focus, experimentalist Claire Rousay hones in on the importance of subtle noise. Across six obscure compositions, the San Antonio-based artist weaves together ambient synth melodies with a diverse collection of field recordings. With her unique use of these niche elements of noise, Rousay has created a record that labels music as a connecting point between humanity and the underappreciated beauty in nature.
100% Galcher (2013)
Galcher Lustwerk has always created easy-listening soundscapes that give listeners countless reasons to pay attention. Over the course of his eight year career, he has only slightly tweaked the formula that he created on his debut, 100% Galcher, in 2013. The 60 minute mix of all original music contains a healthy blend of layered ambient synth tones and monotone raps, all of which connect through the upbeat deep-house compositions now synonymous with his name. Lustwerk's success lies in his consistent sound, with a fanbase that expands at the same rate as his refined catalog.