Category Alt Rock

The Frst Take Center Stage With Star-Studded Punk Rock Opera, “This Never Happened”

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We recently had the extreme privilege to check out the new star studded punk rock opera, “This Never Happened “ from The Frst. You can listen to “This Never Happened” on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here

“This Never Happened “ from The Frst, is a beautifully crafted display of pure punk rock brilliance, The Frst didn’t just set the bar in terms of an incredible album, they took to it a completely different universe and it’s extraordinary.

This Never Happened”, their new full length , from The Frst, contains 13 tracks- highlighting some of Alternative Rock & Punk’s biggest icons, featuring members of Eagles of Death Metal, Bowling For Soup, Sleeping With Sirens, The Almost, Chiodos, The Dangerous Summer and helmed by producers George Perks (Skindred, Enter Shikari) and Matt Malpass (Blink 182, mgk) for a sprawling Nu Punk record that encompasses nearly every genre along the way. 

Containing some of The Frst’s already established tracks such as “Bruce Lee” which hit #29 on the iTunes Rock Chart, and This Is Me Now which hit #46 on the same chart, “This Never Happened” contains fresh material, most notably “kNOw (feat. Makeout)” an uptempo Punk Rock anthem that’s equal parts The Donnas and Black Flag. Lyrically exploring themes of life in the 20’s, “kNOw” is a wake up call to attention with lyrics like “Wouldn’t you like to know, the freak show, the doom scroll…) 

Meanwhile, “Ego Is The Enemy” is a short but mosh worthy Trap-Metal banger clocking in under 40 seconds, and yet the idea is perfectly crystallized by a single phrase, ‘my ego is the enemy.’ The true artistry however, is in the track order and the way each song flows seamlessly into the next. “This Never Happened” walks the delicate balance of feeling like a modern playlist of different artists, and a classic concept album such as Dark Side of The Moon or Sgt. Pepper that paints a vivid picture from beginning to end. Frontman Mikei Gray explains that it wasn’t by accident.

“Part of the concept for the record…is that the album is a playlist that the main character has created to accompany them through the various twists and turns of the story. Each song is supposed to be a little different and sometimes juxtapose what’s next to it.”

Regardless of the lore, the ever changing line-up on each song is enough to keep even the most boisterous listeners attentive.

Do yourself a favor and check out the amazing new record, “This Never Happened “ from The Frst

Falsely Accused Flexes Greatness On New EP, “Unbroken”

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Artwork by Matt Tavano

New England based alternative rock trio, Falsely Accused, new EP, “Unbroken” , was recently named one of Boston’s most anticipated winter releases by WBUR, Boston’s NPR, and we couldn’t agree more .

You can listen to “Unbroken” on Bandcamp Here

When we pushed play to listen to the new sonically blazing EP, “Unbroken, from Falsely Accused, we felt like we were witnessing the rebirth of authentic genuine electrifying life changing alternative rock.

We can’t say we were completely caught off guard on the well crafted EP,  September’s explosive “A Drink Before The War” and the gritty desert rock of October’s “Witches”, certainly gave clues of greatness coming.

Courtesy Of The Band

The two above mentioned single are only the tip of the sonically explosive iceberg, that is “Unbroken” . In addition to releasing Unbroken, which hits Bandcamp for digital release on Friday, January 31, The band will also unleash a CD unveiling and record release party on Saturday, February 15 at Thirsty First in Lowell, alongside Derek Smith and the Cosmic Vultures and Adios Fatso. Along the way to  the live show, the music video for “A Drink Before The War” debuts on YouTube on Tuesday, February 11.  

Falsely Accused ( drummer , Mike Azzolino; bassist and vocalist Matt Tavano; and guitarist Mark Young ) are generating a well deserved buzz, including being mentioned in WBUR, Boston’s NPR – Winter Music Guide

“It’s been three years since our last record and to say we’re excited to get our new music out into the world would be an understatement,” admits Tavano. “We worked hard to create a record with new ideas, new sounds and concepts, not just rehashing the same sound from Compression. As we evolve, so must the music.” 

Recorded and engineered by Steve Aliperta at Kennedy Studios in Burlington, Massachusetts, and mastered by Dominik Honold at Protonaut Studios in Erkelenz, Germany, Unbroken is the sound of a band finding its groove-rock rhythm, but also its lyrical voice. Tavano wrote the lyrics on Compression as a reflection of him facing death and the inner, psychological emotions that come with it. 

We found ourselves constantly replaying “Unbroken“ We loved the post grunge groove on “Castaway” between the soul moving vocals and the incredible guitar work , this song is phenomenal.

“Drifting”, showcases Falsely Accused brilliant ability to take a simple melody and build on it to the point where it is a magnificent musical composition.

The closing track, “Soul Crushing “ is a true musical opus, that takes your mind body and soul on an unbelievable musical journey. It is the perfect way to close out a stunningly spectacular EP.

Falsely Accused Offer Up A Full Glass Of Heavy , Soulful Alt Rock With Latest Single “A Drink Before The War”

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Artwork by Matt Tavano

We recently had the amazing good fortune to check out the new single “A Drink Before The War” from New England alternative rock band Falsely Accused. You can listen to “A Drink Before The War “ on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here and on Bandcamp Here

Falsely Accused absolutely shines while delivering a well defined heavy and soulfull alt-rock sound on their new single “A Drink Before The War “ and we absolutely love it. The heavy sound from Falsely Accused is music to our ears .

Courtesy Of The Band

The riff-fueled track arrives the day the power trio performs live at Thirty First in Lowell, and begins a series of new releases that lead to a new EP arriving in early 2025.

Show poster by Sam Pitino of Answerman

“A Drink Before the War,” Falsely Accused’s first new music since 2021 debut album Compression and the following year’s holiday single “Northbound (For Christmas),” takes its title from Dennis Lehane’s 1994 crime novel of the same name, and is a rallying cry for those we do battle with as we go through our daily lives.      

“I think about ‘A Drink Before the War’ as a love song,” admits vocalist and bassist Matt Tavano. “I wrote the words for my wife. It’s about finding the person you’re going to spend your life with and then fighting life’s battles together. Sometimes I’ve found that before we’ve had to do a hard thing together, it’s good to take a moment, gather our collective strength, and then get after it. A quiet moment before the fight. I think every couple has had those moments.” 

“A Drink Before The War” was written and performed by Falsely Accused.Recorded and Engineered by Steve Aliperta at Kennedy Studios in Burlington, MA and mastered by Dominik Honold at Protonaut Studios in Erkelenz, Germany

“A Drink Before The War” is a freaking great song from a freaking great band . Don’t miss this one.

Falsely Accused is:

Mike Azzolino: Drums, percussion, and backup vocals 

Matt Tavano: Bass and lead vocals  

Mark Young: Guitar and backup vocals

Joey Wit Delivers Pure Rock And Roll Gold With New Album “Rose Gold”

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We recently had the extraordinary opportunity to check out Connecticut indie songwriter Joey Wit and his stellar new album “Rose Gold “ which, is out today (September 13th) via H1 Massive.

You can listen to “Rose Gold” on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here

Photo credit – Kayla Erny

We have patiently been counting the days until we could finally listen to the highly anticipated new album “Rose Gold” from indie songwriter Joey Wit. We are beyond excited to announce that “Rose Gold “ is an absolute rock and roll masterpiece. Joey Wit is a multi dimensional artist who is a gifted songwriter and storyteller that we feel is just getting warmed up.

With lyrics and music written by Wit, Rose Gold includes contributions from 2015 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame guitarist Ricky Byrd (Joan Jett & The Blackhearts) and drummer Matt Starr (Ace Frehley, Mr. Big). The record was produced and engineered by Mick Connolly, who also provides bass, backing vocals, and additional guitars. It was recorded at Red Room Sound Studio in Torrington, Connecticut, and mastered by H1 Massive’s John Eye at Beach House Studios in Weymouth, Massachusetts.

When we listen to “Rose Gold” we can hear the rock and roll spirit of Bruce Springsteen, the independent soul of Elliot Smith. But when you really listen, what you hear is an artist in Joey Wit who is able to draw on several different musical influences to deliver a sound and vibe that is 100 percent Joey Wit.

“This collection of songs sort of felt like I found myself as a songwriter from a confidence standpoint and decision-making standpoint,” says Wit. “There was a willingness and eagerness to explore other avenues. We didn’t just try and paint a picture, rather we sketched it out first in black-and-white and then found the appropriate shades of color to fill it in. As a whole, I think it showcases everything from the traditional songwriting elements, a sort of pop sensibility, a couple of heartfelt ballads, and several new unexpected movements.”

From the moment we hit play, we found ourselves falling in love with the 10 soon to be classics on “Rose Gold “ . As soon as we heard “What Went Wrong “ we couldn’t help but sing along . The slow tempo vibe on “Slower” is absolutely mesmerizing. “Borrowed Time” , “Where Have Been “ and “Storytelling “ really show off the amazing artistry of Joey Witt. If we had to pick a favorite song ( which is next to impossible to do) we would have to go with “Fake Paper” it has such a unique vibe we couldn’t get enough.

Joey Wit not only has been tearing it up on stages in the U.S. but he has also been able to find success on the other side of the Atlantic as well.

September tour will take Wit across the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Iceland. You can check out dates below .

If you love music like we do then you owe it to your music loving heart to check out “Rose Gold” from Joey Wit.

Sam Varga Has Crafted A Work Of Art With Debut Album “Shadow Work”

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We recently had the amazing opportunity to check out the debut album “Shadow Work” from Nashville based , Louisville,Kentucky raised singer-songwriter Sam Varga .

You can listen to “Shadow Work” Here

We don’t like to beat around the bush on The Whole Kameese so, we are going to come right out and say it… The debut album “Shadow Work” from Sam Varga features 11 high quality brilliantly written songs . When you hit play you get 36 minutes of absolute musical nirvana.

Right from note one on “Shadow Work” Sam Varga draws you in with smart , witty lyrics and addictive melodies. “Never Better” is a cleverly written song that we found ourselves mindlessly singing the chorus throughout our day. “Up Down” has a power punk feel. Sam Varga’s impressive vocals are on full display on “Up Down”

Sam Varga shows a stroke of song writing genius with “Alive” The Meg Ryan “When Harry Met Sally “ reference is simply amazing!

One of our favorites on “Shadow Work” is “Jim Carey” Varga carefully delivers an absolutely stunningly beautifully written song . ( We were literally hanging on every word )

In our book Sam Varga gets extra credit on “Shadow Work” for including a song with a Harry Potter reference. “Horcrux” is simply otherworldly.

If we had to pick a favorite song ( which on a record this good , is so hard to do ) We would have to go with “Stories We Tell” it is a beautifully written sonically and melodically pleasing song . “Stories We Tell” played out like a diary entry, authentic,personal- perfect !

If music is your thing , then you owe it to yourself to check out “Shadow Work “ from Sam Varga.

Announcement: The Whole Kameese Is Going On Hiatus

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We started The Whole Kameese back in 2020 as a way to keep busy during the pandemic. We are so lucky to have worked with so many wonderful artists, promoters and other music professionals. We were also so blessed to be able to share so much amazing music . We have made the difficult decision to put the blog on the back burner. At this time we need to focus on other important matters. We do not know how long we will be away but, we will return. We thank all of you for your support

-Jay

Vinyl Station Delivers An Instant Favorite With Their Latest Single “Nothing Yet”

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We recently had the phenomenal opportunity to check out the latest single “Nothing Yet” from Phoenix, Arizona alt-rock band Vinyl Station . You can listen to “Nothing Yet” Here

“Nothing Yet” is Vinyl Station’s fourth and final single leading up to their April 2024 Answer Slow EP, and it is absolutely beautiful.

Listening to “Nothing Yet” from Vinyl Station,is the equivalent of watching a cinematic masterpiece on the silver screen. Vinyl Station has artfully crafted a song with “Nothing yet” that is brimming with so many emotions, our music loving soul was moved beyond words .


“Nothing Yet” epitomizes Vinyl Station’s singular talent for transitioning from robust, larger-than-life power to pin-drop intimacy, engrossing the listener in its passage from its intense outer shell to an ultimately tender core. Lead singer Matthew Thornton’s delivery is captivating, at once movingly passionate and effortlessly engaging. Patrick Andrew’s rich bass lines and Roy Cameron’s full-bodied drumming gird up Sturgis Water’s lead guitar, which ranges from being absolutely immense at volume to subtly poignant in softer moments. Vinyl Station has that rare combination of four distinct musical identities operating in perfect creative harmony, and “Nothing Yet” puts that synergy on captivating display.

“Nothing yet” is honest , authentic and one of the most beautiful melodies you will ever hear out of your speakers. Do yourself a favor and get lost in the beauty of “Nothing Yet”

We cannot wait for April and the “Answer Slow EP”

Gold Steps Shares Stunning New single + Video “Missing Out”

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We recently had the amazing opportunity to check out the new single + video for “Missing Out” from Milwaukee based alternative outfit Gold Steps . You can listen to “Missing Out”Here and you can watch the video below

GOLD STEPS is a vibrant female-fronted alternative band that has a high energy sound and vibe that is absolutely electric. “Missing Out” grabs your attention right from the start, Gold Steps is a band that you need to know about.

The single brings to light the relatable feeling that many people deal with of being enough outside of comparison of the others around us and the struggle that can ensue in one’s mind. When discussing the message behind the track, vocalist Betty Mauritz stated, “Social media is every artist’s cross to bear, and lately I’ve found myself slipping farther down the rabbit hole of comparison, envy, and exhaustion. It’s not enough to keep up with your neighbor; now you have to keep up with peers across the world. I crave the simplicity of shutting out the noise, and being able to be okay with who I am, where I am, without caring what anyone else is up to. Missing Out describes the internal struggle of closing my social media apps and setting down the phone, filled with confidence that I am enough for me…only to return within moments and curse myself for being sucked back into the filtered, cringey, oversharing mess of it all.”

When going through the concept of the music video for “Missing Out,” the band wanted to keep it simple but impactful. “The video features me walking alone through familiar spaces in the city, and though I’m surrounded by people, I don’t interact with them. Am I lonely and hoping to connect with them, confident and comfortable to just exist without anyone else, or wishing I were alone somewhere else? Do they even notice me, or is everyone too concerned with themselves?,” Mauritz shared. “Just like social media, being constantly exposed to other people can be overstimulating, inspire confidence, or leave you feeling incredibly lonely… sometimes all at the same time.”

“Missing Out” is an honest and authentic track that features flawless vocals and strong vibrant melodies. We are all in on Gold Steps , do yourself a favor and check them out, it will most definitely be the highlight of your day

JACK Delivers Stunningly Magnificent Cover Of “Father Of Mine”(Everclear Cover)

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To be a really good artist, you have to be willing to be inventive and willing to think outside the box. Omaha based indie rock songwriter does it not only extremely well but with a vibe and style all his own and… We freaking love it .

You can listen to “Father Of Mine” on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here

His latest is a brilliantly reimagined cover of the 1997 Alt-Rock classic “Father Of Mine” from Everclear .

One listen to JACK’s version of “Father Of Mine” and it is crystal clear you are hearing greatness.

The track was produced by Rick Carson (GRAMMY-nominated producer and engineer of Make Believe Studio). It follows the Omaha-born artist’s latest single, Rick Carson (GRAMMY-nominated producer and engineer of Make Believe Studio). It follows the Omaha-born artist’s latest single, “Try To Arrive Alive,” which was released in January. which was released in January.

Boston Based TELL Delivers A Treasure Trove Of Rock And Roll Greatness With Latest “Life In Reverse”

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By: Jay Kameese

There is nothing quite like an amazing rock record . Boston based alt-rock band TELL(David Wildman, guitar and lead vocals, Jay Raffi, bass and vocals, Patrick Crann, drums and Jim Foster,guitar and vocals ) has done just that , with their new release “Life In Reverse” You can listen to the amazing body of work that is “Life In Reverse” on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here

The Boston Alt-Rock band TELL, is fronted by longtime musician, writer, and novelist David Wildman. Today (February ,9th ) the band releases the amazingly cinematic album , “Life In Reverse, with the release party tonight at The Middle East in Cambridge.

We were absolutely mesmerized by the new single “Owned” , we are now realizing that “Owned” is only the beginning. “Life In Reverse “ was crafted by the band in the studio with producer Benny Grotto of Mad Oak Studios in Allston, MA It serves as a cathartic release of pent-up tension by harnessing the headlines that dominate our newsfeed and filtering them though anthemic and highly-memorable alternative rock. It’s both confrontational and comforting, and underneath its gritty bark is a collection of six shimmering tracks that glow out of the speakers – and may even inspire a dance party.

We were instantly enthralled with “Life In Reverse” from Tell . We were reminded of those records you couldn’t wait to get home to and listen to for hours . “Life In Reverse “ is that good….

Every song has an authenticity and an energy that draws not from the past but also offers a new vibe and sound that is welcomed in today’s otherwise mundane musical landscape.

We were immediately attracted to the addictive melody of “Sweet Life “ vocally “Sweet Life “ is absolutely stunning.

Photo credit- Dan Saltzman

Our personal favorite on “Life In Reverse” is without question “Shell” it is a well crafted gem that has a gorgeous tone to it that gives it a real classic feel that we absolutely love .

“Lyrically, the album is awash in the experience we all have of living through these dark, weird times together, connected mostly through social media,” says Wildman. “It’s nearly impossible to avoid politics for me, so a number of the songs make reference to the cult-like mindset of a huge chunk of the population out there.”– David Wildman .

With the honesty of “I wish I can Believe In God “ and the pure brilliant cinematic feel of “Space Time Continuum” – “ Life In Reverse “ from TELL is a musical experience that you cannot miss.

Prepare To Be Amazed, ALT-ROCK BAND OBSERVE THE 93RD EXPLORES PARANORMAL AND EXISTENTIAL BOUNDARIES ON GROUNDBREAKING ALBUM “ETERNALISM”

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We recently checked out the brand new record “ETERNALISM” from MECHANICSBURG, PA, based theatrical alt-rock duo Observe the 93rd.

Your ears can fall in love with “ETERNALISM” Here

One of the things that makes “ETERNALISM” so epic , music lovers from spanning My Chemical Romance’s early 2000s emo era to classic rock fans who seek music influenced by The Beatles’ White Album will find something to love amongst the varied tracklist

The piece combines vivacious theatrical rock and influences from rock n roll’s past icons with poignant lyrics exploring the depths of consciousness, the universe, and lifeforms beyond Earth.

Beyond the out-of-this-world themes, the band maintains their humanity with songs about loss, mental health, and the challenges of life. The band continues to weave masterful storytelling and thought-provoking philosophy into everything they do, with this album being their most ambitious themed record yet.

Eternalism is a theory that proposes that the past, present, and future are all equally real and all happening simultaneously. Subject matter revolving around this theory is the main thread of this album. We touch on ideas involving ghosts and how they could be glitches in the timeline, as well as UFO’s, which I suggest may be piloted by dead or future humans who are no longer tethered to linear time and as such can now travel across the entire expanse of existence freely. Ghosts and UFOs will also be the main visual aesthetic, as seen on the front cover art by Caitlyn Grabenstein (@cult.class) and the back cover art by Danielle Marshall (edit by Nate Baer). Mental health and depression are other prominent themes on this album, on display in songs like ‘Stick Around’ and ‘Who Will Find My Body?’. The creative process is therapy and that catharsis is the driving force behind our compulsion to create. Sonically, we scaled back the production and went for a more raw approach than our previous works. Throughout the recording process, our reference points were Nirvana’s In Utero, The Beatles’ White Album, and Joy Division’s Unknown Pleasures. This album feels haunted.” – Derek Henry, Observe The 93rd

Alternative rock band Observe The 93rd was voted the best rock band of 2021 by the Central Pennsylvania Music Awards and for good reason. The name, ‘Observe the 93rd,’ is a reference to the Observable Universe, which is 93 billion lightyears in diameter and constantly expanding, and a Da Vinci quote, “Observation is the key to understanding.” As time passes, more light is able to reach us and more of the universe is revealed to us. This sentiment poetically intertwines with their musical and personal mission statement to collect experiences that broaden our perspectives and allow us to better understand ourselves as time passes, just like the universe.

Each raw, visceral track is guided by feelings, experiences, failures, triumphs, suffering, joy, and any other abstract internal entity that yearns to be expressed through melody. With every Observe The 93rd release comes a new puzzle piece in their musical galaxy that is intertwined with easter eggs and secret hints that tie all of their releases into one expansive story about life. Vocalist/guitarist Derek Henry and drummer Dylan Zepp created more than just a band, it’s a universe for fans to dive into.

Observe The 93rd have given the universe and music lovers everywhere, an absolute gift in the form of their last masterpiece “ETERNALISM” Every track feels like an experience you soon won’t forget.