Indie Shuffle » electro pop

Coyote Kisses – This is How You Know

Zach Connett — Thu, 23 May 2013 12:00:17 +0000

Sounds like: Skrillex, Sound Remedy, Diplo, Madeon

Song: Coyote Kisses - This is How You Know [download here]

What's so good?

“Imagine if Apollo 13 made a successful lunar landing. Except this time, they had a disco ball. And electric guitars.”

I wish I could take credit for the literary gem that is the previous line, but in all honesty, I pulled it from the Coyote Kisses’ Twitter profile. It is a phenomenal opener, amiright? Funny thing is, if I was on the moon with a disco ball, I’d probably want “This is How You Know” blasting in my space helmet. Just floating around, intergalactic vibes filling my ears, planet Earth in the backdrop. Sounds fricken‘ awesome to me.

Whether you are already a fan of Coyote Kisses, the bro-duo who happen to be life long friends from Lakeland, Florida, or if you are just becoming keen to their music now, you will be pleased to hear that they are telling the world via their Facebook page that we “ain’t seen nothin’ yet.” The fellas are about to graduate college, and if they plan to keep providing us more ear candy as they promise — and if it’s anything like the recently released Thundercolor EP — then I’m as ecstatic as they are.

Good luck dudes, and congrats on the diplomas.

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1. Original post: Coyote Kisses – This is How You Know

2. Posted in: Electronic, electro pop, dubstep, glitch, sound remedy

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Tesla Boy Ft. Tyson – Broken Doll

aniballuque — Tue, 21 May 2013 15:08:36 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Sounds like: Miami Horror, Cut Copy, Gary Numan

Song: Tesla Boy Ft. Tyson - Broken Doll [download here]

What's so good?

If I were to come out of retirement and don my luchador mask once again, this track would be my entrance music. “Broken Doll” is the newest single by Tesla Boy, the project hatched by Russian producer Anton Sevidov. After some switches in their line-up, Tesla Boy is following up their debut LP with the highly anticipated The Universe Made of Darkness.

The first two singles, “1991“ and “M.C.H.T.E.,” have already delivered with their full-bodied soul, and this latest release doesn’t disappoint. London’s Tyson adds some sensuality to this track with his lush vocals to perfectly complement the funky basslines and smooth synths.

This song has everything you need to keep you grooving all night long. Just one question remains…do you want to dance?

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1. Original post: Tesla Boy Ft. Tyson – Broken Doll

2. Posted in: electro pop, dance, synth-pop, electro dance, synthwave

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Owl Eyes – Jewels & Sapphires (Goldroom Remix)

Jason Grishkoff — Tue, 21 May 2013 14:51:43 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Song: Owl Eyes - Jewels & Sapphires (Goldroom Remix) [download here]

What's so good?

When I first heard this song yesterday, I didn’t think “woah, this is definitely SOTD material.” But after a couple listens today, I’ve come around.

Goldroom has done a marvelous remix of Owl Eyes’ “Jewels & Sapphires,” and while it’s not necessarily the catchiest song you’ll hear all day, I think the quality stands for itself.

For context, the song be released on a remix EP coming soon from Owl Eyes. Hopefully it’s not five versions of the same track…because this one will steal the cake.

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1. Original post: Owl Eyes – Jewels & Sapphires (Goldroom Remix)

2. Posted in: female vocalist, remixes, electro pop, dance, electronic remixes

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Oscar Key Sung – It’s Coming

hmcclure — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:57:52 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Sounds like: The Weeknd, Jai Paul, Miguel

Song: Oscar Key Sung - It's Coming [download here]

What's so good?

Oscar Slorach-Thorne is one brilliant dude. Initially catching our attention as half of the quirky pop duo Oscar + Martin, he’s split off on his own recently to concentrate on his Key Sung project. His single “WIMLTM” was featured on Indie Shuffle last year, before he worked alongside Mercury Music Prize-nominated wordsmith Ghostpoet and Brooklyn’s MeLo on their recent MELOGHOST collaboration. Now concentrating on his own work, he’s just released two tracks which should continue his rise.

As well as a cover of Miguel’s “Sure Thing” (well worth a listen here), Key Sung’s original highlights his unique talent. “It’s Coming,” while showing a slightly more commercial R&B side to his work, still contains plenty of the quirky traits which we’ve come to know and love from the Melbourne-based artist. Tight looping and precise beats provide the perfect base for Slorach-Thorne’s soulful vocals. Lovers of the Weeknd or Jai Paul will swoon over this work. Both tracks are available for free download on his SoundCloud.

With BBC Radio 6 programmer Gilles Peterson championing him, international recognition is sure to follow soon. Be sure to check out his Bandcamp for a taste of his earlier work.

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1. Original post: Oscar Key Sung – It’s Coming

2. Posted in: Electronic, electro pop, Australia, R&B, rnb

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

When Saints Go Machine – Iodine

Kavit Sumud — Mon, 20 May 2013 11:35:45 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Sounds like: Ghostpoet, Ta-ku, Flume

Song: When Saints Go Machine - Iodine [download here]

What's so good?

Recently, a friend asked me if the new direction that When Saints Go Machine are taking made me throw any shade their way. And I thought, “How in any multiverse could it? They’re taking everything that made my favorite track by them (and eleventh favorite song of all time), “Fail Forever,” and extrapolating its essence out into a full LP.”

“Fail Forever“ is a song with a deep, inherent loneliness that never played weak. It’s lyrics and video inspire me endlessly, making its way into some of the cinematographic methods for a movie I’m soundtracking/writing.

New single “Iodine” plays right to my muse. It’s the kind of track made for solitary, urban wanderers that don’t dare to admit to (but swirl endlessly within) their own darkness. The beats bring a swagger to your heavy footsteps and girds your heart against the whips of the winds of a Danish winter. Lyrics are everything on this song, but you might need a guide, so read them here.

If you’re as big a fan as I am, you can preorder the new album on iTunes.

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1. Original post: When Saints Go Machine – Iodine

2. Posted in: electro pop, synth-pop, synthwave, flume, dark pop

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Estate – Slipstream (TEEEL Remix)

Louisa Ferguson — Sat, 18 May 2013 15:24:25 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Sounds like: Cut Copy, Cold Cave, Darius

Song: Estate - Slipstream (TEEEL Remix) [download here]

What's so good?

The original Estate song “Slipstream” is great, but TEEEL‘s rework just takes it to a new level.

The song half loses itself in its more ethereal moments, but the relentless pace keeps it barreling forward, and the intersection of the two is quite successful. The beginning made me think I was going to hear something much more electro, but it gives way to something lighter right away. There is promising, immediate tension between the lyrics (“You can’t feel it until you feel it so bad”), and the artifice of the song’s seeming fluidity (hello, electronic music — if there’s one thing it has mastered, it’s artifice). I’m hooked.

This is a quintessential TEEEL sound, but the pairing of the two artists could not be more complementary. (DCUP‘s also done a version, but it’s much slower).

Yummy, synthy goodness.

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1. Original post: Estate – Slipstream (TEEEL Remix)

2. Posted in: electro pop, dance, synth-pop, electro dance, male vocalist

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Lancelot – You’ll Never Be Mine

hmcclure — Thu, 16 May 2013 13:53:15 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Sounds like: Goldroom, Moon Boots, Perseus

Song: Lancelot - You'll Never Be Mine [download here]

What's so good?

Sydney producer Lancelot is no stranger to Indie Shuffle, with a few of tracks/remixes already sitting pretty in our archives. His 2012 We Can Dance EP (which featured the single “Spoken Word“) was quickly circulated, introducing this young man as one to watch. Even noted producers like the Magician and Goldroom (who even remixed the EP’s title track) were transfixed by this disco-house champion.

He’s just released his first original material of the year, with a two-track available on his SoundCloud for free download. “You’ll Never Be Mine” is a sure-shot; I can’t remember hearing a smoother track in recent memory. Perfectly produced, Lancelot claims it shows off the new, deeper direction his music is taking on.

Lancelot’s follow up EP, Thinking of You, will be released in full next month; hopefully this is enough to tide you over.

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1. Original post: Lancelot – You’ll Never Be Mine

2. Posted in: electro pop, dance, synth-pop, house, Australia

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Solange – Looks Good With Trouble Ft. Kendrick Lamar

sweeneykovar — Wed, 15 May 2013 20:58:45 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Sounds like: Sonnymoon, Knxwledge, Empress Of, Kendrick Lamar

Song: Solange - Looks Good With Trouble Ft. Kendrick Lamar [download here]

What's so good?

Though I’m definitely late to the Solange party, I would say she is my favorite Knowles. I’m no Bey hater, I recognize her importance in the pop culture continuum and all that jazz, but to be frank I can’t listen to her. Beyonce’s songs always make me extremely self-conscious, and by the time she’s telling me to “put a ring on it,” I’m painfully aware I probably can’t afford that ring. Solange, on the other hand, is a more enjoyable listening experience for me.

Her TRUE EP was awesome; pop with substance, sweet but weighty. From the fantastically dapper trans-continental video for “Losing You” to the bittersweet shuffle of “Some Things Never Seem To Fucking Work,” the project was teenage summer love encapsulated. I can almost swear I feel a warm breeze when some of those synths hit.

As an added treat to recently announcing the formation of her new label, SAINT Records, she also released a new version of “Looks Good With Trouble” from the TRUE EP, now featuring 100% more rhymes from Compton’s own Kendrick Lamar.

The West Coast MC sounds more like Andre than usual as he details a lovelorn trip to London, stuck on a tour bus watching old Hollywood classics, wishing a certain someone was along for the ride. While I’m obviously being a bit of a dick (though not without reason), the two certainly have a musical chemistry that makes me wonder what more collaboration would sound like.

Don’t sleep on Solange (like I did) — she’s ill.

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1. Original post: Solange – Looks Good With Trouble Ft. Kendrick Lamar

2. Posted in: Electronic, female vocalist, hip-hop, electro pop, soul

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

MØ – Waste of Time

Aaron Blum — Wed, 15 May 2013 13:37:10 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Sounds like: MS MR, CHVRCHES

Song: MØ - Waste of Time [download here]

What's so good?

Scandinavian synth-pop outfit MØ absolutely blew up the stage this year at the Indie Shuffle Showcase during SXSW, giving me a whole new appreciation for them. A few months back, we also covered an amazing MS MR remix of MØ’s track “Pilgrim,” which was also a game changer.

Today, MØ has shared a new track called “Waste of Time” that immediately got me and my roommate hooked. Not to mention, our first listen came via their YouTube video (see below), which was quite strage and grotesque. Nevertheless, the singer/songwriter from MØ effortlessly displays her harmonious repertoire backed by catchy beats, hard synths, and golden guitar riffs.

The new track is expected to be released on their album due out later this year.

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1. Original post: MØ – Waste of Time

2. Posted in: Electronic, indie pop, female vocalist, electro pop, synth-pop

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Pigeon – Encounters (Airwolf Remix)

hmcclure — Wed, 15 May 2013 13:29:48 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Sounds like: Friendly Fires, Bag Raiders, Miami Horror

Song: Pigeon - Encounters (Airwolf Remix) [download here]

What's so good?

Pigeon are a Brisbane-based group still in the early stages of their assault on the Australian indie pop scene. The five-piece released their debut EP Fortunes last year, drawing plenty of attention and prized support slots for the likes of Van She and Strange Talk.

The EP’s second single, “Encounters,” was perfectly designed to be remixed, and that’s exactly what Melbourne based DJ/producer Airwolf has done. Already known for his disco-infused mixes, Airwolf has done a solid job with this one. He hasn’t altered it too drastically, but has definitely added to the pop anthem by speeding it up and giving it his renowned disco signature. And of course, the epic sax solo towards the end doesn’t hurt.

This is a track I should have featured last year, so thanks Airwolf for giving me a fresh opportunity to give this one a shout-out.

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1. Original post: Pigeon – Encounters (Airwolf Remix)

2. Posted in: electro pop, dance, synth-pop, Australia, friendly fires

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Rockie Fresh – Nothin Wrong With That

Zach Connett — Wed, 15 May 2013 13:29:02 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Sounds like: Future, Casey Veggies, Chance The Rapper, A$AP Rocky

Song: Rockie Fresh - Nothing Wrong With That [download here]

What's so good?

Electro pop and hip-hop? I think it’s fair to say that this relationship is somewhat unexplored, so it excites me to provide this track to our curated digital library.

Rockie Fresh is a name we’ve seen just a couple times in this community of tunes. The Maybach Music Group rapper just dropped his first project after the extremely stellar Electric Highway, titled The Birthday Tape. Only six songs in its entirety, it’s a short ride, but “Nothin Wrong With That” is heavy in the rotation right now, so I wanted to share it with you.

Like many past Rockie joints, the beat is on point. Those familiar with the band Carousel will pick up the sample immediately (psst, it’s their song “Games”). I haven’t found out who is behind the production yet, but seriously, kudos bro.

The lazy, auto-tune vocals don’t always work, but I’m feeling them on this one. Lyrics are something along the lines of smoking herb, drinking booze, partying, getting it in, and relationship problems that can stem from all of that. It’s nothing we haven’t heard before, but it’s fitting for the sound of the song. I’m diggin’ it and hope those of you making the discovery are bumping your head in electro-hop enjoyment.

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1. Original post: Rockie Fresh – Nothin Wrong With That

2. Posted in: hip-hop, electro pop, electronic hip-hop, rap, mixtape

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Blondfire – Where The Kids Are (Tune In Crew Remix)

Bri Guy — Wed, 15 May 2013 12:35:01 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Sounds like: Discovery, Blackbird Blackbird, Amtrac

Song: Blondfire - Where the Kids Are (Tune In Crew Remix) [download here]

What's so good?

Tune In Crew are a duo producing music from Strasbourg, France, known for remixing a wide variety of artists, ranging from Adele to Matisyahu. Today I bring you their remix of “Where The Kids Are” by rising indie pop artist Blondfire.

This remix keeps the track’s indie pop roots while moving guitar and keyboard sections of the song around. It also keeps Erica Driscoll’s vocals, which create an innocent atmosphere throughout the song.

For more from Tune In Crew, checkout thier SoundCloud, and listen to the original version by Blondfire here.

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1. Original post: Blondfire – Where The Kids Are (Tune In Crew Remix)

2. Posted in: indie pop, remixes, electro pop, indie rock remixes, female vocalist remixes

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Crystal Fighters – LA Calling

Jason Grishkoff — Tue, 14 May 2013 16:43:02 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Song: Crystal Fighters - LA Calling [download here]

What's so good?

I feel a little redundant featuring Crystal Fighters for the SOTD slot again, but it appears that in the wake of Daft Punk releasing their new album, everyone else has gone quiet. And to be fair, the post from four days ago was a remix — hardly a brand new original.

“LA Calling” is the umpteenth single to be released off the band’s new album Caves (available for pre-order here), and might just be one of my favorites. It’s catchy, upbeat, fast-paced and doesn’t last too long.

All in all, I’m calling it a winner — as is this album, in general.

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1. Original post: Crystal Fighters – LA Calling

2. Posted in: indie rock, indie pop, electro pop, dance, folk-pop

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Alex Cameron – She’s Mine

hmcclure — Mon, 13 May 2013 15:50:19 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Sounds like: David Bowie, PVT, World's End Press

Song: Alex Cameron - She's Mine [download here]

What's so good?

As part of influential Sydney electronic trio Seekae (who we’ve featured on a Sunday Night Chill playlist), Alex Cameron has been celebrated both locally and internationally. The band’s percussionist, Cameron, has also branched off on his own, recently debuting his live show. After releasing “Gone South” (you can check out the clip below) earlier this year, he’s just offered up his first official single.

“She’s Mine” sees Cameron take a another step away from Seekae’s beat-orientated electro — the David Bowie references will be quickly noted given the seductive vocals and the synthy 80s vibe of the track. Most importantly, the track’s production is spot on, with the somewhat minimalist arrangement ably supporting Cameron’s strong voice and poignant lyricism.

I love a good side project, and this is an excellent one. Luckily, Cameron’s got a whole album ready to unleash on us in the coming months; I can’t wait!

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1. Original post: Alex Cameron – She’s Mine

2. Posted in: Electronic, indie pop, electro pop, synth-pop, Australia

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

PLOY – Too Far Away (Premiere)

Bronte Martin — Mon, 13 May 2013 13:41:48 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Sounds like: Sun City, Tourism, Museum

Song: PLOY - Too Far Away [download here]

What's so good?

Today PLOY are following up their last release “VRDSNT” (which Indie Shuffle copped the premiere of as well) with yet another bubbly, synth-infused single.

“Too Far Away” seeps upbeat electronica through an unbelievable variety of synth, layered vocals and ticking percussive lines. Singing about some far away lover that appears to be just out of reach, Justin Victoria and Gil Wojcik find their touch with the use of slight syncopation, stressing each and every beat. Melismatic in every which way possible, the vocals enhance the overall tightly-packaged four minutes of pure bliss.

I adore the direction that PLOY is exploring, utilizing their signature keyboard sound, used in tandem with synthesizers and the oh so important drum machine. Although respecting the shadow their previous work, both Victoria and Wojcik uniformly have taken “Too Far Away” into what electro-pop should be.

Like what you hear? Check out their Bandcamp.

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1. Original post: PLOY – Too Far Away (Premiere)

2. Posted in: electro pop, synth-pop, Sun City, PLOY, Tourism

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Eilidh Hadden – Close To Home

Kavit Sumud — Sun, 12 May 2013 15:25:37 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Sounds like: Ellie Goulding, Fallulah, Florrie

Song: Eilidh Hadden - Close To Home [download here]

What's so good?

I’m someone who works best with a little anger in their veins, which is why I like to have my music help me stare down the barrel of life by getting my fists pumping, my heart boarding a tank, and the bile boiling in the back of my throat. Lately, I’ve been calling that genre bitter power pop.

Carried on the strength of its soaring choruses and anthemic lyricism, this kind of music will make your soul shake down your struggles for their lunch money. And in my book, British newcomer Eilidh Hadden’s “Close to Home” is a perfect encapsulation of that strength.

“Close to Home” opens with spliced shouts laced with fearlessness, and then quickly waves in and out of anxious, tender verses. It ends up creating a confluence of emotion that feels a bit like those times when you’re faced with the insurmountable, and you show the world a darkly, reserved smile but are trembling inside.

This demo was re-recorded on a kitchen table by a member of a band I reviewed last week, Lewis Gardiner from the equally exuberant Prides (check out “Out of the Blue“). As such, it’s an unassuming first taste of great things to come, I’m sure.

Follow Eilidh Hadden and Prides on SoundCloud.

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1. Original post: Eilidh Hadden – Close To Home

2. Posted in: indie pop, female vocalist, electro pop, ellie goulding, dark pop

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Houses – The Beauty Surrounds (Silent Rider Remix)

Kavit Sumud — Sat, 11 May 2013 20:08:01 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Sounds like: The xx, Mirel Wagner, The Antlers

Song: Houses - The Beauty Surrounds (Silent Rider Remix) [download here]

What's so good?

Only adept lyricists dare to tread into the topic of death. Balancing the weight of death’s sentimentality is a bit like keeping an elephant upright on the blade of a scythe: tip it one way and the eulogy becomes wooden, the other and it’s a hysterical affair. Songs about new life and love allow for error and missteps in production as that’s what life is all about; but death is about finality and closure, and as such begs an exacting science in its tracks.

Few artists clear that bar, but a few songs I hold as exemplary are Mirel Wagners’ “No Death,” Radical Face’s “All is Well (Goodbye, Goodbye)“ and The Antlers’ entire debut LP. Well, we can also add Houses‘ “The Beauty Surrounds” (and the Silent Rider remix to boot) to that list.

“The Beauty Surrounds” reminds me of this Ukrainian documentary about hospice patients that I helped soundtrack. The movie’s entire point was about the moment of realization in a person’s eyes when they didn’t deny their reality anymore. There’s a line in this song which captures that perfectly:

“There’s some lights in your eyes that I follow about
But they’re dimming quick, and you’re getting sick,
So now I wander out alone.”

Those lines are delivered so fantastically as to be just fucking devastating… oh, I can’t even handle them. Just so brilliant.

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1. Original post: Houses – The Beauty Surrounds (Silent Rider Remix)

2. Posted in: electro pop, electronic remixes, minimal electronica, the xx, minimal remixes

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Interview: Goldroom

Elizabeth Walker — Thu, 09 May 2013 13:05:51 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Sounds like: The Magician, Poolside

Song: Goldroom - Only You Can Show Me (Ft. Mereki) [download here]

What's so good?

Last month, I had the opportunity to cover L.A. resident Goldroom’s live show in San Francisco. Today, I’m bringing you thoughts from the human Josh Legg himself. From music management to DJing to forming a live band, Legg seems to have all the smarts and talent one ever needs. Oh, and he’s down to earth, too.

Be sure to take a gander at the bubble gum video featured just below for Goldroom’s newest single “Only You Can Show Me.”

Your name, your digital persona, your sound, all have a very L.A., SoCal vibe to them. Would you say this more of an on-stage embodiment or an intrinsic part of your real-life personality?
Absolutely real-life. My parents lived in Seal Beach for years before I was born, and their pseudo-hippie sailor lifestyle was always a ‘what-if’ missing chapter of my life. Once I graduated high school, moving to a place that I could be around the ocean and sailing year round was a huge priority. I basically fell in love with Los Angeles right away and have spent the last handful of years really embracing everything out here. Obviously there’s a lot more to me than what comes across to social media, but I’m certainly not crafting some persona that I’m not. Come to Long Beach any Wednesday in the summer and you’ll find me racing Catalina 37s and drinking Mount Gay. Sailing is really my life’s ‘other’ passion besides music. I think it was sort of a blessing that I went into creating Goldroom without wanting to make any kind of persona… for once I just wanted to be me.

Considering the evolution of Goldroom as a music project from a one-man production / DJ outfit to the three-piece band it is today, how do you feel the concept of Goldroom has changed for you personally? I’m specifically thinking of a quote from a Last Gas Station interview you did last year where you stated: “When I think about Goldroom though, it became much more when I started to think about L.A. and the whole Southwestern USA as one giant golden room though, that’s when I started to think about adopting the name.” Does this sentiment still holds true for Goldroom?
As I was saying in the last question, when I moved here, I quickly fell in love with the city of Los Angeles. What I didn’t anticipate, was developing a huge appreciation and love for the surrounding areas. Wine tasting up the central coast, spur of the moment trips over the border to Rosarito, and mind expanding trips out to Joshua Tree… its a world away from what I experienced growing up in Boston. I couldn’t help but be inspired by all of it!

That said, moving forward, I hope that my inspirational palette continues to evolve. I think that I’ll always be inspired by beautiful scenery, the ocean, and the power of adding people to those places… but I don’t necessarily think that Goldroom will ever be exclusively ‘about’ Southern California. This first batch of songs is undeniably tied to the last years of my life living here in LA, but I expect that things will continue to evolve once I finish this record.

Growing up in Boston, you’ve said that you always dreamed of living in a warm, sunny place, and that California has been extremely influential with your music creation. Would you say you’ve brought aspects of Boston into your music as well, and if so what are they?
I’ve been asked this question before, and my answer tends to be that I always used music as an escape to a better place. In reality, youth culture in Boston, at least when I was there, was pretty rooted in classic rock and the jam scene. All of my first live music experiences were seeing guys like Tom Petty, the Allman Brothers, Jimmy Buffet, but also acts like String Cheese and Phish. Honestly I think it was seeing some of the jam bands that opened up my love for big, tension and release style buildups and breakdowns. There’s a huge common thread between a Phish show and a Tiesto set, which is that long periods of time, sometimes ten minutes or more, are all calculated buildups to emotional climaxes. I’ve always been infatuated with melodic based tension and release, and so I think that that made falling for electronic music that much easier once I opened up my ears to it.

You posed a question to me when we were catching up after your last show in San Francisco, asking if I thought people could fall in love with a DJ. I’d like to throw that back to you and and ask if you think a crowd truly can fall in love with a DJ?
I think seeing a DJ perform is much more about lust. Its all sweat and aggression and dancing and sex. You’re probably not singing along with the DJ, and you probably leave the show exhausted. So to answer your question, yes I think you can fall in love with a DJ… but maybe only for a night at a time. You probably don’t take the DJ home to your car, to your bed, and to your parents house. I love DJing so much, because that intensity that comes from a great DJ set is something that cannot be replicated in a live setting.

That said, a live set is so much more intimate. Singing songs that you wrote, and playing them on instruments opens up such a different window. Its really special and getting to connect with people on such a more personal level is truly gratifying as an artist. I feel like you can build a bond that will last a lifetime.

On that note, can you feel a difference from the way crowds receive your music and appreciate your live sets now that you are performing as a band?
Absolutely, and its actually been a total surprise to be honest. I think we underestimated the number of people that maybe wanted to see us, but we’re really into DJs so had never come out before. As I mentioned in the previous question, there is a level of intimacy playing live that just isn’t there DJing. I can make mistakes up there, and the crowd sees every emotion I’m having written all over my face. They know how much more important it is for us, and I think they respond in kind.

Can you describe your ultimate setting to play a show?
I DJd a small festival in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic on the beach this past winter. I was swimming 20 minutes before I played… Honestly I’m not sure how much better it can get than that. Except for maybe playing Coachella (laughs).

The last time I saw you play, you were DJing as an opener for The Magician. Can you describe what it’s been like to move from a one-man opener to a full band headliner?
Somehow its all felt super natural. I think maybe because I DJd in all of the places that we’re now playing live. Introducing a city to the project through a DJ set has been a really great way to ease into the whole touring experience. By the time we’re bringing the live set, people already know what to expect and they’re ready for it. Its been great.

I’ve always been in bands as well, so I always knew Goldroom would go live at some point. I didn’t expect it to be this soon to be honest, but we are where I thought we’d be.

The past year has clearly been big for you. What’s one thing that stands out to you that you know now but didn’t 365 days ago?
I think a year ago I was really hoping to get signed by a record label, publishing company, and all that stuff that most bands hope for. It wasn’t meant to be at that point, and I think sticking to my own plan and self releasing has been the best thing I could have done. Self releasing music is the best thing any young musician can do. You get to keep control of your own art while also being flexible enough to make sure that you release music only when you’re ready. I’m so happy operating on my own right now.

What album do you think is most underrated?
Air – Talkie Walkie / Overshadowed by Moon Safari but still my favorite desert roadtrip album of all time.

Any exciting plans for your other music project NightWaves and your label Binary with Goldroom this year we should keep an eye out for?
NightWaves is something I’m always thinking about and wishing that we could get cranking again. We have an album of material that I’m totally in love with. The three of us are all working on different projects at the moment, but I really hope we finish the album so that everyone can hear it.

Binary is alive and well and I think the next year will definitely see us release some exciting music. Its been tough doing some of the label stuff while also keeping up with Goldroom touring and writing, but I really hope to keep things moving forward on that end.

As for Goldroom… I’m working on my full length album. I have a lot of material for it, and I’m still working on writing and polishing the whole thing!

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1. Original post: Interview: Goldroom

2. Posted in: Electronic, electro pop, dance, chillwave, nu disco

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Cambio Sun – Intuition

hmcclure — Thu, 09 May 2013 13:04:50 +0000

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Sounds like: The Weeknd, Shlohmo, Guerre

Song: Cambio Sun - Intuition [download here]

What's so good?

Back in March, I reviewed a great track from Sydney electronic duo Lusinth. Now, one of the artists, Charlie Tait, has started a side project, Cambio Sun.

His first finished work is “Intuition,” a release that a seasoned performer would be proud of, let alone an 18-year old still finishing high school. The instrumental half of Lusinth, Tait has structured this track beautifully, with sparkling guitar, smooth percussion and well-placed breakdowns showing this talent’s large potential. The vocal arrangements on the track are super too, rising and falling throughout, giving it a really dreamy vibe — and best of all, it’s Tait singing himself!

Another wonderful young producer to keep an eye on in the coming year.

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1. Original post: Cambio Sun – Intuition

2. Posted in: electro pop, synth-pop, chillwave, Australia, dream pop

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Bee Gees – Stayin’ Alive (Capital Cities Cover)

Justin Lam — Thu, 09 May 2013 09:38:53 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Song: Bee Gees - Stayin' Alive (Capital Cities Cover) [download here]

What's so good?

Capital Cities covering a Bee Gees classic? I think we all know what to expect here…

True to form, this version of the massive retro hit single “Stayin’ Alive” is rich with synth work and harmony. With their signature approach, the band have stayed clear of anything too fancy or over the top, which is exactly how one should cover the Bee Gees.

The artwork on this track is also pretty sweet. Not exactly what I’d envisioned when I first heard “Stayin’ Alive,” but clearly quite applicable!

Free download available via SoundCloud.

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1. Original post: Bee Gees – Stayin’ Alive (Capital Cities Cover)

2. Posted in: Electronic, indie rock, indie pop, electro pop, dance

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Airbird & Napolian – In The Zone

Louisa Ferguson — Wed, 08 May 2013 00:34:51 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Sounds like: Girrafage, Poolside, Teams

Song: Airbird & Napolian - In The Zone [download here]

What's so good?

Short and sweet, “In The Zone” will take you there (to the zone), but is definitely a bit of a tease. Guest vocalist Erika Spring sounds a bit like Janet Jackson (I think?), and I mean that in only a good way. This track is begging to be mixed into something longer, and I’m sure it will be picked up real quick.

Airbird (who is really Joel Ford of Ford & Lopatin fame) I have loved for a while (particularly the track “Girl“), L.A.’s Napolian is new to me — but, together, their hybridized sound is definitely more than the sum of its parts. The track notes promise a full length “on track for winter” so we’ll just have to sit tight for now. Or like, chill in the zone.

(Don’t call it seapunk. Unless you look at the album art. Then you can call it seapunk, maybe.)

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1. Original post: Airbird & Napolian – In The Zone

2. Posted in: Electronic, female vocalist, electro pop, synth-pop, dreamwave

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Conics – This Moment

hmcclure — Mon, 06 May 2013 13:34:49 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Sounds like: Friendly Fires, Bag Raiders, Gold Fields

Song: Conics - This Moment [download here]

What's so good?

Having released a number of singles over the past couple of years, young Sydney dance-rock outfit Conics have already shown plenty of promise. After being handpicked to share the stage with a slew of up and coming Australian acts including Flume, Gold Fields and RÜFÜS, they quickly developed a reputation for their high energy shows. The five-piece has been putting the finishing touches on their debut EP (out in the next couple of months), with the first taste of the release now out in the form of first single “This Moment.”

Australia has developed a reputation for producing some excellent indie pop music in recent times, and Conics should be added to this list as one to watch. “This Moment” is an energetic, vibrant piece of music in the mold of some of the better Australian acts like Bag Raiders or Gold Fields, highlighting this band’s great potential. A dreamy hook, sharp percussion, deft synth-layering and a touch of cow-bell make this irresistible to anyone keen for a slice of new indie-pop music.

With new material to follow quickly on the heels of this release, this is just your first taste of your new favorite band. If you’re around Sydney in May, they’ll be playing a three-week residency at Oxford Arts Factory over the coming three Saturdays (check out their Facebook for full details).

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1. Original post: Conics – This Moment

2. Posted in: indie pop, electro pop, dance, synth-pop, Australia

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

MS MR – Hurricane (CHVRCHES Remix)

Kavit Sumud — Sun, 05 May 2013 08:18:24 +0000

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Sounds like: Marina and The Diamonds, Little Daylight

Song: MS MR - Hurricane (CHVRCHES Remix) [download here]

What's so good?

So, did you hear about this last night? CHVRCHES had MS MR‘s baby, and gave birth to it on Annie Halls’ BBC show in a gale force of bloody awesomeness. Granted, one could just say they remixed “Hurricane” and premiered it on the BBC, but what’s life without a bit of innuendo and double entendre?

Turns out this rework of “Hurricane” is amazeballs — which is saying a lot coming from someone so protective of the original that other attempts were insta-enemies to my ears.

You’d think the song would suffer from being socked in the face with a smattering of synths, but CHVRCHES take the track’s original sentiment — waking up from a deep slumber in your mind’s darkest places — and speed up the process until we’re a few steps into the future.

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1. Original post: MS MR – Hurricane (CHVRCHES Remix)

2. Posted in: female vocalist, remixes, electro pop, synth-pop, female vocalist remixes

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

WRLDS – Communicate

Bri Guy — Sat, 04 May 2013 17:29:21 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Sounds like: Beat Connection, Four Tet, Toro Y Moi

Song: WRLDS - Communicate [download here]

What's so good?

WRLDS is a new indie pop duo from Nashville, TN comprised of masterminds Les Priest and Jake Goss.

“Communicate” is a synth-based track with well-paced vocals. They use a few different synthesizers and keyboards to create an especially unique sound.

Because this band is on the rise, you can expect a few more singles from WRLDS this summer. As we wait for more, grab a free download of this track off Bandcamp.

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1. Original post: WRLDS – Communicate

2. Posted in: indie rock, indie pop, electro pop, synth-pop, four tet

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Matisyahu- Live Like a Warrior (Tune In Crew Remix)

Kavit Sumud — Sat, 04 May 2013 15:50:05 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Sounds like: Discovery, Blackbird Blackbird

Song: Matisyahu - Live Like a Warrior (Tune in Crew Remix) [download here]

What's so good?

Anthems are kind of my weakness. Shoot a great one at me, and it’s likely to pierce my music critic soft underbelly, leaving me defenseless to do anything but review it. Tune in Crew’s remix of one of my faves, Matisyahu’s “Live Like a Warrior” (from last year’s Spark Seeker), definitely falls into that category.

Sure, the lyrics are a bit cloying, but they hit with enough heart to make the track feel like a foot stomping, cavalry march into a promise land of your own making. Tune In Crew’s remix certainly amplifies and accentuates that feeling, making the track feel like a swirling hymnal. With Discovery-esque synth-pop production that wouldn’t have been out of place on that band’s equally uplifting “Osaka Loop Line,” Tune in Crew turn “Live Like a Warrior” into a delicious slice of angel pop.

If you don’t know Tune In Crew, you really should. I’ve been following these very active French remix artists since they released one of the only reworks of Adele’s “Rolling In The Deep“ I actually liked. Plus, their ardent support for Jean-Luc Mélenchon in the French Elections on Facebook endlessly endeared me to them.

Check out their SoundCloud and Facebook to check out their catalogue of great remixes (a few of them are award winning!).

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1. Original post: Matisyahu- Live Like a Warrior (Tune In Crew Remix)

2. Posted in: Electronic, remixes, electro pop, synth-pop, reggae

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.