We recently had the stellar opportunity to check out the new single, “Clarity”, from South Bay–born, Nashville-based alternative/pop-punk artist MEGG. You can listen to “Clarity” Here
From the moment you hear the electrifying new single , “Clarity” , from MEGG., you can’t help but be absolutely mesmerized. ( The song is freaking perfect)
“Clarity takes me back to my roots as a vocalist. It’s a cry for any semblance of honesty in our currently very dark world.”-MEGG
A collection of six raw and unapologetic tracks, Low Life Club cements MEGG’s status as one of pop-punk’s boldest new voices. Blending pop sensibility with punk-rock roots, she’s built a sound that’s rebellious, catchy, and deeply personal — a fearless soundtrack for tomboys, romantics, loudmouths, and misfits alike. Channeling Gwen Stefani’s swagger, Hayley Williams’ firepower, and Joan Jett’s grit, MEGG brings early-2000s energy into a modern, unapologetically self-defined era.
Photo: Sarah Rosin
Low Life Club’ feels like the unofficial soundtrack to the West Coast and is easily some of the best music I’ve ever put out,” she adds. “It’s multidimensional — the heaviness, the vulnerability, the riot, the vocal chops, the nostalgia, the party, and everything in between. It’s got a little something for everyone. I’m really proud of these songs and stoked to give them to my fans.”
A graduate of USC’s inaugural Popular Music Performance Program,MEGG has been tearing up stages across the country — from headlining hometown venues like Saint Rocke (Hermosa Beach) to packing The End (Nashville). She’s shared stages with KISS and The Used, opened at Musink, and recently performed at the 30th Anniversary Vans Warped Tour in Long Beach. She’s also sung the National Anthem for the LA Dodgers, LA Galaxy, and LA Sparks at Crypto.com Arena.
Following a string of singles in 2024 — including the bratty fan-favorite “IDC” (currently spinning on SiriusXM’s The Pop Off and 107.7 The Bone’s Bone Breakers) — MEGG continues to build momentum toward Low Life Club. Earlier tracks like “Get Over It” and “The End” gave fans a taste of what’s to come, showcasing her knack for combining anthemic hooks with raw emotion and unapologetic attitude. Pre-Save “Low Life Club” Here
We recently had the unbelievable opportunity to check out the new single “ON/OFF” from Fake Dad, a Los Angeles based, NYC bred indie rock meets dream pop duo.
We absolutely love the vibe on “ON/OFF , from Fake Dad. ( Andrea de Varona (she/her) and Josh Ford (he/him)
“ON/OFF” is a grunge classic full of bottled-up rage and sexual frustration. De Varona chronicles the moment-by-moment experience of being emotionally overwhelmed and overstimulated—bedrotting, serotonin burnout, doomscrolling, time bleeding together, laying on the bathroom floor trying to figure out if she’s feeling too much, or not enough.
“ON/OFF”features guitarist- Jeff Frantom (Bombshell)
Formed in 2020, the duo met at a college party in the East Village and have been inseparable ever since. Melting their own unique artistic visions to build a shared sonic shorthand,Fake Dad create like master painters, carefully molding a sonic and melodic sound that is laced with catchy pop-laden hooks, crunchy, 90s inspired guitars, grooving bass lines, and buoyant synths. The end result is absolutely otherworldly and you can feel it completely on “ON/OFF”
De Varona says about the song, “This was written when I couldn’t get out of bed or leave my apartment. Time really bleeds together. When you ignore feelings for long enough you become overwhelmed by and disconnected from them—both numb and overactivated. This song compares that numbness to its direct companion, doomscrolling serotonin burnout. The modern world wants us to be overstimulated and ‘turned off,’ this song is me pleading to be turned back on. “
Fake Dad, without question is a duo you need to know and “ON/OFF” is a song you NEED to HEAR .
We recently had the opportunity to check out California based experimental electronic duo WORK and their new single “Islands” You can listen to “Islands” on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here
WORK consists of Julio Tavarez and Joe Zizzo who also make up the rhythm section of the grammy award winning band Bob Moses. Their sound is a bombastic collage of various influences including dance music, punk and indie rock.
“Islands” from WORK is an absolutely captivating and electrifying track that not only makes you want to move your feet but it also moves your soul long after the music stops
Originally from New York both Joe and Julio have had decade long careers in the early 2000’s with their own respective bands. Joe with The Sleeping, a post punk rock band. And Julio with As Tall As Lions, a melodic indie rock quartet. Since then they have toured the world time and time again playing for other artists. Finally, they have decided to showcase their own unique blend of influence and allow everyone else into the world of WORK.
“Islands” is a sensational piece of musical greatness from WORK . So go find your favorite place to listen to music and get familiar with “Islands” from WORK.
We recently had the amazing opportunity to check out the new single “Chameleon” from Los Angeles based singer,songwriter,artist and performer MARIS . You can listen to “Chameleon” Here
I recently had a conversation with someone who told me that there are not any true artists in today’s music scene. Well, based on this comment they haven’t listened to MARIS,she is without question one of the most creative artists in music today. One listen to her magnificent new single “Chameleon” and you will know exactly what we mean.
On “Chameleon” the very best of MARIS, is on display. Spot on vocals gently nestled between brilliant melodies- absolutely stunningly gorgeous.
With each release MARIS continues to shine brighter and brighter.
In 2023, MARIS released a celestial six-song EP, Gravity, and accompanying short film, Gravity: The EP: the Movie (Black House, Best Friends Music), followed by new singles, “Voicemail”, “Hot Guitar Player”, and “GOING YET!.” She supported the releases throughout the solar system, opening for acts including Anna Of The North and TheWrecks. She performed at Boston Calling and Missoula Pride this summer
Fans can catch MARIS Earth-side this fall opening for Melt on their North American tour. Best experienced live, MARIS and her music have a riveting aura that ensures all in attendance are in a safe place to be their happiest, truest, and most out-of-this-world selves.
We recently had the opportunity to check out the sophomore EP “Everything’s Still” from rising pop singer & songwriter Paulina. You can listen to “Everything’s Still” Here
Across the EP’s 3 songs, “stranger,” “funny (interlude),” and “a song I wrote,”Paulina opens up about an emotionally resonant breakup she went through.
There is something very personal and moving about “Everything’s Still “ from Paulina. It very like we were reading entries from a diary. Paulina,is a gifted and talented songwriter who writes brilliant songs from the heart.
The title of my EP, ‘everything’s still,’ was inspired by one of my favorite Noah Kahan songs, ‘The View Between Villages,’” she says. “The closing line of the song, ‘and everything’s still,’ really resonated with me. It feels so uplifting, like it’s the moment you can finally breathe again. That’s how making this EP made me feel; I wanted to embody that feeling.”
Photo credit- Elizabeth Spear
The EP kicks off with the dark and sultry lead single, “stranger,” which grapples with her initial heartbreak and the phenomenon that the person you once loved has now become a stranger. The second track, “funny (interlude),” sees Paulina wading through the emotional whiplash of the breakup, slowly picking up the pieces of her shattered heart. She emerges with a sense of bittersweet resolution on the EP’s closing track, “a song I wrote.”
The final song on the EP is about questioning whether or not the person still thinks about you,” she says. “And it’s the realization that even if they don’t admit it, you know there will always be things that remind them of you — like the song you wrote that you know they’ll be listening to. It’s a sassy, mic drop conclusion to the breakup story.”
Paulina is the solo pop project of Los Angeles-based singer and songwriter Paulina Ella Levitan. Born and raised in Long Island, New York, her love for music was sparked at a young age. She was classically trained in piano starting at the age of 8 and grew up performing in musical theater productions. After taking a songwriting summer camp in high school, Paulina decided to dive headfirst into making music her full-time career and enrolled at the University of Miami’s esteemed Frost School of Music.
“Everything’s Still” from Paulina is a collection of songs that will touch your heart and soul.
We recently had the most excellent opportunity to check out the new album “EXES “ from Los Angeles based pop-punktrailblazer deegie. You can listen to “EXES” Here.
We have to be honest… we freaking love “EXES” from Deegie. It is 10 tracks of pure pop punk genius.
The LP is a brutally honest collectionof 10 song sallabout the exploration of dating.Sonically daring, the music serves as both a time capsule of contemporary romantic struggles and a cathartic scream into the void for anyone who’s ever navigated the treacherous waters of modern relationships.
The idea for the EXES was sparked when deegie stumbled upon her online journals spanning nearly a decade, which included details about her past casual and serious relationships that were too good not to indulge in. From men who made it clear they never wanted to be serious, to clingy, cloying men who held her too tight, each song is an exploration of memory, accountability, and the perspective bestowed by time.
The songwriting and melodies on “EXES” are absolutely flawless. The record is personal and authentic. You can’t fake real and Deegie, has crafted an absolute gem of album .
There is also a relatability within the album, in that we have maybe been or know someone who has been in similar relationship situation.
Every song is pure pop punk perfection. We honestly can’t pick a favorite song , as every song is a work of art.
So find your favorite music listening spot and get lost in the greatness that is “EXES” from Deegie.
It is so refreshing to listen to a record like “Another Big Explosion “ Right from the first note it is crystal clear that Jr. Juggernaut ( Mike Williamson,lead vocals, Wal Rashidi,drums and Noah Green ,bass) had an absolute blast making its fourth full length “Another Big Explosion “ which is their first record on Mindpower Records, and the first to feature bassistNoah Green (of L.A.’sThe Pretty Flowers).
“Another Big Explosion “ is a real live and kicking rock record that has a big loud and authentic sound that we simply can’t get enough of enough.
“Another Big Explosion “ is the kind of the record that you turn on and not skip over a single track . We found ourselves singing along and playing air guitar almost instantly.
Some of our favorite tracks on “Another Big Explosion “ are “Hang On” ( The opening lick is mint) “Take Alone” and “After Tonight” are two other highlights from “Another Explosion “ .
Jr. Juggernaut, have delivered an absolute phenomenal record. It is an absolute must listen.
We recently had the amazing opportunity to check out the latest single “The Fight” from Los Angeles based singer,songwriter,artist and performer MARIS . You can listen to “The Fight” Here
We have made it no secret how we feel about MARIS,here on The Whole Kameese. She is without one of the most talented artists out there today . Her latest single “The Fight “ is MARIS at her absolute best.
When discussing “The Fight” MARIS confides “The Fight” is actually about a cat named Cheese that I desperately wanted to adopt, but ended up not being able to because I didn’t have enough time, money, or space to give her a good life. I went to an amazing studio to work with Sweettalker and Isa Molin for the first time, and all I could think about was this kitten I had to give back to the foster family. We batted around a lot of ideas, and the melodies just flew out of the room”
MARIS hitched a ride on a comet to Los Angeles( originally from Montana) in 2021, and decided to stay and become a pop music sensation. Her mission on this planet is to connect with listeners through her candid experiences as a queer and emotionally vulnerable songwriter with an ‘80s-inflected pop universe and beats you can’t help but dance along to.
. In 2023, MARIS released a celestial six-song EP, Gravity, and accompanying short film, Gravity: The EP: the Movie (Black House, Best Friends Music), followed by new singles, “Voicemail”, “Hot Guitar Player”, and “GOING YET!.” She supported the releases throughout the solar system, opening for acts including Anna Of The North and TheWrecks. She performed at Boston Calling and Missoula Pride this summer.
Best experienced live, MARIS and her music have a riveting aura that ensures all in attendance are in a safe place to be their happiest, truest, and most out-of-this-world selves.
If you haven’t heard of MARIS Yet… Where have you been ??? Seriously MARIS is an artist and “The Fight” is a song you can’t afford to miss !!!
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
We were recently delighted to check out the new video for “Sunlight” from rising singer-songwriter Maisy Kay .
You can watch the video below and listen to “Sunlight” Here
MaisyKay is a bold and fascinating new voice in pop music. Moving from a small countryside in England to the heart of Los Angeles, Maisy Kay is a one-of-a-kind musician blending nostalgic dance and pop music magnified through her lyrics and overall inspiration behind every track.
The video for “Sunlight” is yet another shinning example of the incredible unique artistry of Maisy Kay .
As shown on her 2020 smash single “The Storm” with gaming music creator, TheFatRat, which has suppressed 30 million streams on Spotify, she is already making a mark in the industry with collaborations with notable powerhouses like Timbaland, Tiësto, Rodney“Darkchild”Jenkins and Max Martin protégé Lukas “LULOU” Loules. Maisy Kay has incorporated her love for fantasy and alternate worlds with songs like “The Beast Within” inspired by the fictional Na’vi language from “Avatar.” She has made waves with her hit singles, “Karma is a Bitch Like You,” “Scared Together,” which received a remix from producer DJ R3HAB and got her first big break contributing Japanese lyrics and vocals to pop artist Anly’s #1 Spotify viral hit, “Distance.”Maisy Kay is proud to continue to share her gift with the world with her newest hit singles “First Time” and “After Midnight” off her EP “Metamorphosis” that debuted last year.
The songstress last year wrapped up a tour with JVKE across the United States. She is looking forward to continuing to grow her fanbase and inspiring others to find their own paths as she relays in her lyrics illustrating her own journey to self-discovery.
We recently had the amazing opportunity to check out the new single “Wasted Youth “ from rising alt-pop artist Chloe Star. You can listen to “Wasted Youth” Here .
There is literally nothing that Chloe Star can’t do, she is a musical tour de force and we think she’s only getting warmed up.
Bold, evocative, openly queer, and a fierce advocate for female empowerment, Chloe Star is the definition of a modern day rockstar. Her music is equally defiant, shamelessly blending elements of pop, rock, and punk into a catchy sound that is wholly her own.
We love everything about her epic new single “Wasted Youth” Chloe Star is authentic artist with an absolutely electric sound that we can’t get enough of.
Opening with a catchy distorted guitar riff, “Wasted Youth” explodes into a thrilling, full tilt rock and roll anthem. It’s the sort of song you can’t help but scream along to. Lyrically, “Wasted Youth” also showcases Chloe at her most raw and vulnerable as she candidly opens up about the 3 months she spent at a wilderness treatment program when she was 16.
This song is about my experience going through that program, but it’s also a song that brings light to the fact that if I hadn’t been sent there, I wouldn’t be where I am now,” she says. “Without it, I wouldn’t be able to share my story and open the door for others to share their stories.”
Chloe Star is a Persian and Indigenous singer, songwriter, visual artist, and tribal advocate. Growing up she split her time between Los Angeles and her family’s reservation in San Bernardino. With a childhood that was chaotic and often unstable, she found solace in journaling and writing poetry. She taught herself to play piano and guitar and soon started transforming her prose into lyrics.
Chloe Star is an artist with a song “Wasted Youth “ you can’t ignore.
We recently had the amazing opportunity to check out the new single and video for “BloodOrange Wine”from Los Angeles based singer-songwriter Stela Cole. You can listen to “Blood Orange Wine “ Here and you can check out the video below
“Blood Orange Wine”, is the last of the trilogy and is an upbeat indie pop bop. She confides,”The song is about the adrenaline wearing off after being emotionally yanked around by a person I loved. For months I was turning to vices to bury the pain and I soundtracked this period of my life with a lot of Fleetwood Mac and Electric Light Orchestra. I’m not surprised they ended up having a huge influence on how the record ended up sounding. It turns out that time is the only thing that truly heals, and honestly thank God for that.”
We absolutely love the accompanying visuals which are cinematically thrilling with Stela teaming up with award winning directors Eliot Lee and Maya Sassoon and co-star Noah Gonzalez to create a dramatic and enthralling story.
There is something simply mesmerizing about Stela Cole’s flawless vocals and it is on full display with “Blood Orange Wine”
Stela Cole has garnered over 100 million streams and is known for her insane vocal prowess and left of center pop releases.
“Blood Orange Wine “ is one song and video you need to check out .
You can check out Stela Cole on Instagram HereTIKTOK Here and on X Here
We recently had the opportunity to check out the new single “Next To Me” from Los Angeles based artist and creator Hunter Blair Ambrose.You can listen to “Next To Me” Here
A beautiful melody with hypnotic beats and flawless vocals “Next To Me” from Hunter Blair Ambrose is absolutely one song you can’t afford to miss.
The track is a synth-pop love song that is equal parts mid-tempo banger and power ballad.“NEXT TO ME” was co-written by longtime collaborator and producer Jason Strong (Gayle, Mothica, Salem Elise) in the fall of 2022. The song’s lyrics serve as a confession of love and devotion to a somewhat unsuspecting love interest and an expression of making the decision to give into falling in love. It was also written about making the conscious decision to give your entire heart and soul to someone and the desire to have them by your side through the ups and downs of life.
Hunter Blair Ambrose has found success with hundreds of thousands of streams and is known for her powerfully distinctive vocals, vast range, tight melisma-flourished delivery, fashion forward styling, and provocative visuals to accompany her artistry.
We can’t wait to see what Hunter Blair Ambrose does next ! In the meantime we will keep “Next To Me” on repeat.
We recently had the opportunity to check out Montreal-born, LA-based singer, songwriter, model & actress Kayla DiVenere and her new single “Small Talk” . You can listen to “Small Talk” Here
Following recent hit singles like “Date Myself” and “Jumping the Gun,” the LA-based artist delivers another punchy alt-pop earworm with her new single, “Small Talk.” Kayla created the song with producer/songwriter Jordan Witzigreuter (The Ready Set) and songwriters Maia Kelly and Zach DeGaetano.
At just 20-years-old, Kayla’s catchy yet introspective lyrics perfectly capture the highs and lows of young adulthood. On “Small Talk,” her honeyed vocals tell the story of a secret crush she has on her brother’s best friend.
I created ‘Small Talk’ in my longing to have more than a fleeting 5 minute conversation with my crush every time he would come over,” she opens up. “My imagination ran wild and I found myself aching for something like a John Hughes romance movie about a secret love, complete with a boombox outside my window and a mixtape of his favorite songs. After rewatching every romance movie I could find, I decided that instead of torturing myself, I should write this song in an attempt to pour my heart out and make sense of my desire for something more than small talk.”
Photo credit – Lili Skyler
We love everything about “Small Talk” from Kayla DiVenere . It is an honest and authentic track that is very well written. We can’t wait for more from Kayla DiVenere.
We are over the moon excited that we finally get to check out the new 2 song single “The Albatross “ and “I Remember Damage “ from L.A. melodic punk supergroup Fire Sale, which, is out today ( February 9th) via the awesome folk at Negative Progression Records.
You can feast your ears on the melodic goodness of “The Albatross “ and the equally amazing B-side “I Remember Damage” Here
We make no secret about how we feel about Fire Sale here at The Whole Kameese. Heck if it wasn’t for Fire Sale and “That One Time On Tour “ podcast there would be no The Whole Kameese . Fire Sale a punk rock supergroup composed of Matt Riddle (Face toFace and No Use For A Name), Chris Swinney(The Ataris), Pedro Aida (Ann Beretta), Matt Morris and Brad Edwards are the text book definition of what amazing melodic punk should sound like .
The latest offering from Fire Sale, is a 2 song single “The Albatross “ that is without question Fire Sale at their absolute best.
The single was mixed at the world famous Blasting Room and features hand painted art from Mark DeSalvo (NOFX,Lagwagon)
There is this immediate cinematic vibe to “The Albatross “ that really makes it stand out . It is also clear that the level of musicianship within Fire Sale is off the charts
Everything on “The Albatross “ is well thought out and orchestrated perfectly giving way to a unique melodic punk sound that brilliantly infuses a pop punk sound and a prog-rock feel that makes for a one of kind musical experience. Lyrics delve into the difficult issue of gun violence and scream for a change.
Singer Pedro Aida says, “The Albatross is about the frustrating and hopeless feeling we have when we send our children to school and the worry of bullying, bad grades, and drug use have been overshadowed by the fear that they won’t come home at all.”Guitarist Chris Swinneyadds, “The Albatross is a song that we have been trying to write since the beginning of the band. If you grew up listening to anything on Fat or Epitaph…it is a huge nostalgic slap in the face.”
Equally impressive is B-Side“I Remember Damage” which, features melodic vocals that ride the wave of driving power chords and a lead guitar riff that dances all over the fretboard. “I Remember Damage” is an absolute gem that showcases the one of a kind energy that makes Fire Sale such an electrifying musical tour de force .
They say November is the month to be THANKFUL…. Well we are super THANKFUL for this epic Teens in Trouble / Desert Mambas Split EP via Kill Rock Stars and Asian Man Records.
The amazing split features two electric indie rock tracks from San Francisco-born, Raleigh-based Teens in Trouble and two moody bluesy alt-country jams from LosAngeles-based Desert Mambas.
You can listen to the split EP on Spotify Here and Apple MusicHere
Photo Credit- Rochelle Shipman
We would suggest that if indie-rock is your thing that you immediately listen to the new split EP from Teens In Trouble and Desert Mambas because wicked good music is always a good thing …. And trust us this split EP is wicked good.
Teens in Trouble and Desert Mambasexplore mental spaces and places in their autobiographical and adventurous self-titled split EP, Teens in Trouble / Desert Mambas, out today. Created eight months after an exchange between friends Lizzie Killian of Teens in Trouble and Bailey Moses of Desert Mambas, the split is a playful yet cathartic musical project pulling from the experiences and work of both artists.
My therapist ghosted me for six months. So six times two hundred per session, Four times a month, carry the one… That’s a new guitar. And I don’t need a new guitar, I just need someone to talk to…” ( We here at The Whole Kameese can absolutely relate to therapy and buying musical equipment, so this on really hit home with us) Killian muses on in Teens in Trouble’s“Sharon”. Desert Mambas’ “Notes From Chicago” holds the existential indie rock theme steady, “Even the desert will be crying tonight. Even the cacti will be wet with tears… cold and wet with tears tonight…” Tonally and lyrically, this EP provides the alternative rock that grazes punk and surf, the kind encapsulating the feeling we reach for when hitting play on Best Coast, Dum Dum Girls, or Alvvays. We are absolutely smitten with the retro feel/vibe from Desert Mambas
Teens in Trouble, the blazing, guitar-heavy, indie creative project of writer, guitarist, and vocalist Lizzie Killian, brings a follow-up from their debut EP released under Asian Man Records last fall, which has been featured in Alternative Press, BrooklynVegan, Consequence, Stereogum, and more. Teens in Trouble brings another emotionally-driven and self-expressive voice to one half of this EP. Just after recording Teens in Trouble’s debut full-length, Killian messaged Moses about co-writing a song together to which they responded by suggesting recording a split EP, “then one thing led to another, and here we are eight months later!” shared Killian.
The playful and in-the-moment nature of this EP coming together is reflective in the Teens in Trouble side of the split, bringing songs about being present in the moment and mental health, both based on true stories/experiences of Killian. The songs of this half are both emotional and locationally specific, with one of the songs “Winter in The Trap” referring to a small town in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina. Teens in Trouble’s tracks were recorded with friends guitarist/bassist/producer Randy Moore(Lektron, Dan Andriano & The Bygones), drummerHenry Chadwick, and guitarist Mike Huguenor (Jeff Rosenstock) at District Recording in San Jose.
Desert Mambas, the project of Los Angeles-based, Arizona-raised Foxx Bodies guitarist Bailey Moses, once again provides a refreshing voice through sun-drenched melodies with country and roots influences bringing in a biographical approach to their half of the EP. Following their debut EP, …But it’s a Dry Heat, a warm and breezy ode to trans joy that was released earlier this summer under Kill Rock Stars, Moses continues to dive further into themes of identity and personal experience while also being able to find a space for previous projects. “For part of this project I revisited some older ideas sonically,” shared Moses. “The song ‘Notes from Chicago’ was written a long time ago, and I’ve always liked it but didn’t know where it fit. Including it in this EP feels like finally getting to play with something that can be its own thing.”
This fuzzed-out, personal, dreamy collection of songs is released by the artist’s respective labels – digitally through Kill Rock Stars and on vinyl through Asian Man Records today, Friday, November 17. Asian Man Records‘ store has a green vinyl variant, DesertMambas‘ Bandcamp has red, Teens in Trouble’sBandcamp has blue, and the KRS site has black. The digital EP can also be purchased on Bandcamp and streamed on major streaming platforms.
Teens In Trouble and Desert Mambas are heading out on a West Coast tour starting December 6 , details below
We know the word “important” can get thrown around incorrectly when discussing music. However, we believe that the split EP between Teens In Trouble (Asian Man Records) and Desert Mambas (Kill Rock Stars) qualifies as an important collection of songs because both in their own way do a brilliant job of exploring the different aspects of the human condition- and we think that is important.
Teens In Trouble and Desert Mambas are heading out on a West Coast tour starting December 6 , details below
We recently checked out the debut album “My Brain Is Fired” from Los Angeles singer-songwriter Holden Miller.
You can listen to “My Brain Is Fired” on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here
Holden Miller has a unique vibe and sound that he absolutely rocks. In a musical landscape that can be a little mundane, Holden Miller and his stunning debut album “My Brain Is Fired “ is a welcome change
The title track “My Brain Is Fired “ serves as the opening track to the album and , it is an absolute gem . Highlighted by smartly written lyrics and absolutely perfect vocals we loved every minute.
Holden Miller doesn’t take himself too seriously — but his music is another story. When it comes to singer-songwriters with folk and pop undertones, it takes a lot to stand out from the crowd, and Holden is up for the challenge. He creates music that holds a mirror to the experiences of other young people by approaching his songwriting without pretension.
The track “Teeth” has a unique feel and sound to it and we are still singing along , long after the music has stops
Holden is able to push the boundaries of what a contemporary singer-songwriter can look like: through broad, often impressionistic interpretations of anxiety, the passage of time, and love and heartbreak, his music finds a way to resonate with a wide audience even beyond his own demographic.
“The Messenger” is an absolutely brilliantly written song . Holden , is definitely firing on all cylinders. We had this on repeat … simply amazing.
“My Brain Is Fired “ from Holden Miller is the kind of album that you want to find the tallest mountain and tell the whole world how great it is
“Dig A Hole”, “Break The Rules” and “ILY(I’m Losing You” are all phenomenal tracks that show the extraordinary talent of HoldenMiller.
Raised on the classic rock of the 1960s and ‘70s, Holden is the nexus of genre staples like Jack Johnson and Jason Isbell, intersected with more modern iterations like Alexander23 or Adam Melchor. The listener may find his clever lyricism sparking an epiphany once they realize he’s unpacked a feeling they know all too well, but in his own quirky and unique way.
So find your favorite music listening spot and get lost in the musical greatness that is Holden Miller and his fabulous debut album “My Brain Is Fired”
We recently got the opportunity to check out the new single “Over The Phone” from Boston born and bred and now Los Angeles based singer-songwriter Delilah Brao
You can listen to “Over The Phone” on Spotify Here and Apple Music Here
First things first , if you are a regular reader of The Whole Kameese then you know that Delilah Brao is automatically cool in our because we are both in fact from Boston.
All kidding aside, we love the vibe and feel of “Over The Phone”. Delilah Brao has this hint of mystery to her that adds another dimension to her music .
In her debut EP, “Since You’re In New York”, Delilah ruminates on long distance relationships, heartbreak and starting over. Produced by Justin Lucas (Khalid, The Revivalists, Alec Benjamin, Wafia) and mixed by Philip Etherington (Lizzy McAlpine, FINNEAS, Laufey, Tiny Habits), this folk-pop EP is sparsely and delicately produced to showcase Delilah’s moving songwriting and ethereal vocals. She’s singing about herself, and you, and it’s still somehow out of reach.
Her leading single “Over The Phone” is a stunning folk-laced pop single all about heartbreak from a long distance relationship. She confides, “Over The Phone is about this guy I dated who broke up with me on FaceTime. The call only lasted 5 minutes – it’s like he fit it in between episodes of the series we were watching together. It’s grim. We dated for years. But, long distance sucks and the song kind of speaks for itself in that way.”
We have a feeling that Delilah Brao is just getting warmed up and we can’t wait to see what she does next .
We are over the moon excited to check out the latest single “Bitter” from L.A. based pop duo All Day Sucker ( Morty Coyle & Jordan Summers )
You can listen to “Bitter” on Spotify Here and on Apple MusicHere
We first had the absolute pleasure listening to All Day Sucker back in August, when they released the melodically perfect single “I’m Not Tired . Then last month we had the pleasure of checking out their latest single “Fathers Of Daughters” ( being a father of a daughter we really felt this one, we may or may not have shed a few tears. )
Well we don’t know what we did to be so lucky but…. Today, we got to check out the brand new single “Bitter” from All Day Sucker ( and we are happy to report it did not disappoint)
“Bitter” is full of beautiful sweet melodies and harmonies and vocals that are beyond spectacular. You can’t help but want to sing along to “Bitter” even after only hearing it once . All Day Sucker has out done themselves once again.
We said it before and , we think it bears repeating. All Day Sucker write big beautiful pop songs that have this amazing cinematic/ show stopping appeal that you just can’t ignore .
Find your favorite music listening spot and experience the beauty of “Bitter” from All Day Sucker
We had the amazing opportunity to check out the sophomore album “PENDULUM” from Los Angeles based baroque pop artist Gal Musette.
You can listen to “Pendulum” on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here
You can’t help but be immediately captivated by the beautifully constructed sophomore album “Pendulum “ we are treated to 11 musical compositions which showed the incredible musical versatility of Gal Musette.
Gal Musette is the artist name used by Grace Freeman, who began writing piano and guitar based lyrical compositions and performing at open mics in her home city of San Clemente, CA at the age of 10. Her graceful approach to melody-driven indie-folk has captured audiences all over Southern California.
Right from the opening track “Into The Blue” we are completely smitten. “Into The Blue” is a big beautiful track perfectly and flawless performed by Gal Musette.
The title track “Pendulum” is absolutely spectacular song that feels like a page turning novel that we couldn’t put down.
There honestly isn’t a bad song on “Pendulum “ it is artfully crafted with songs that you can’t ignore . From “Catch Me If You Can” , to the playful “Plateau” Our favorite track on “Pendulum “ is “June’s Asleep” We absolutely love the beginning with the bells .
We couldn’t help but picture this song on the big screen as part of a major motion picture.
Go find your favorite music listening spot and get lost in the beauty that is “Pendulum” from Gal Musette
We were so excited to check out the new single/ video “The Boredom “ from Los Angeles duo Pen Pin. You can listen to “The Boredom “ on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here and you can watch the amazing video for “The Boredom “ below
Pen Pin is the new music project from songwriters and multi-instrumentalists Jeni Magana and Emily Moore. The duo met on tour with Mitski and have created a DIY musical project with the two playing almost all of the instruments on the album and self-producing it as well.
“The Boredom” is a song about the perils of low levels of dopamine. Jeni confides, “I hope it serves as a reminder not to be too hard on ourselves when we find ourselves scrolling through our phones yet again, without knowing how we got there. “The Boredom” isn’t necessarily evil, but it’s a character that you might not always want around but seems to show up when you least expect it anyway.”
We think is next to impossible not to fall for this stunning new track. Surf rock drenched guitars underlay layered breezy melodies that extend that summer vibe just a little longer .
Jeni Magana and Emily Moore , combine to make unbelievable music that is just pure magic . “The Boredom “ from Pen Pin is that song that you didn’t know you needed but can’t live without.
Pen Pin will be releasing “Pony Up” in the spring of 2024
We were over the moon with joy , as we got a chance to check out the new single “Pretty Boys” from Los Angeles indie-pop vocalist KiKi Holli (spoiler alert:”Pretty Boys “ is an absolutely stunning track, KiKi Holli sounds amazing. )
You can listen to “Pretty Boys” on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here
“Pretty Boys” from KiKi Holli is a pop rock meets dance anthem that transcends genres, appealing to music lovers of all backgrounds.
KiKi says, “I see this song as a nod to the LGBTQ+ community. It’s about finding your strength and power in that community, in friendship and on the dance floor.” The singer’s signature vocals soar over thumping basslines and energetic synth hooks, inviting listeners to embrace self-expression and confidence. The lyrics explore themes of attraction, allure & self-empowerment, encouraging everyone to be their own version of a “Pretty Boy.”
“Pretty Boys” is KiKi Holli at her absolute best . We are witnessing with “Pretty Boys “ an artist who is truly coming into her own.
KiKi Holli’s signature vocals soar over thumping basslines and energetic synth hooks, inviting listeners to embrace self-expression and confidence.
Produced by Grammy nominated producer Ethan Allen, “PRETTY BOYS” boasts a production quality that’s as impressive as it is innovative.
We have a feeling that we will have “Pretty Boys” on constant repeat. “Pretty Boys “ is a song you will be dancing to long after the music has stopped.
Hailing from East Los Angeles, alt-punk staples Death Lens proudly announce their signing to Epitaph Records. Comprised of Bryan Torres, Matt Silva, Jhon Reyes, and Eduardo Contreras, the foursome has three albums under their belts, a split EP with The Frights, and opened for acts such as Enjoy, Together Pangea, Cherry Glazerr, Militarie Gun and many more. Reflecting on the occasion, the band enthuses,
Coming from absolutely nothing to getting signed by a label we grew up idolizing and always dreaming we’d be on is an incredible honor. We are still in awe that we get to share our name with such a legendary roster. To be a part of this legacy is so insane… we still can’t wrap our heads around it! Hard work pays off and we thank Epitaph for this once in a lifetime chance.”
You can listen to “Vacant” from Death Lens Here and you can watch the video below
“I hold Vacant dear to my heart because it tells my everyday story of existing with social anxiety and relying on alcohol to break that since I was young,” Torres discloses. “Growing up with ADHD, I turned to alcohol as a way to slow my mind and feel normal around people, but it became a vice. Now that I’m older I’m trying to break that habit and try sobriety, but with sobriety comes a vacant feeling at times. My new obsession is writing and journaling how I feel to fill those voids, and that’s where the lyrics of Vacant came together.”
On their 2022 album ‘No Luck’, Death Lens were inspired by the turmoil and culmination of racial injustice of 2020. They set out to make an honest album that encapsulates the anxieties and hardships of life, while ultimately conveying a positive message that there is light at the end of the tunnel. As living proof of this themselves, the band grew up as minorities in a place with constant harassment by police and heavy gang violence. Their paths could have gone other ways, but they’ve chosen positivity and strive to be a light for their communities, their fans and each other.
We are 100% all in on Death Lens and their killer new single and video “Vacant” Death Lens has a familiar sound ( We hear shades of Rancid with a little bit of grunge . However one is crystal clear about Death Lens they bring a unique and blazing sound that is all their own, and …. We freaking love it.
Since the release of No Luck, Death Lens have been continuously reaching new heights. They performed at Treefort Fest, toured around the country with Militarie Gun and Together Pangea, and are one of the most played bands on SiriusXM Faction Punk. Their songs have been added to huge playlists on Spotify and Apple Music, with confirmed syncs in MTV’s Ridiculousness and EA’s NHL Video Game. After selling out two headline shows at The Echo in their hometown, 2023 is shaping up to be their biggest year yet. And we can’t wait !!!
We recently got the chance to check out the new single “I’m Not Tired “ from L.A. based band All Day Sucker.
You can listen to “I’m Not Tired “ on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here
“I’m Not Tired “ from All Day Sucker is one of those songs that you just don’t get tired of hearing it. No matter how many times you listen to it . Co-founders Morty Coyle and Jordan Summers are master songwriters who construct a beautiful melody for “I’m Not Tired that is both fun and timeless. In addition to “I’m Not tired “ All Day Sucker” will be releasing a new album “Feel Better “ this fall .
Taking influences from the past and mixing in their own unique sound All Day Sucker is going to be your new favorite band … You just don’t know it yet .
***FULL DISCLOSURE *** Before embarking on this review for “Flower Underground” we were unfamiliar with Daniel Ellsworth ( frankly we don’t what took us so long )
Daniel Ellsworthis an amazing genre bending artist, his style falls somewhere between buoyant, hopeful pop, carefree indie rock, and pulse-driven hip-hop. We are absolutely mesmerized. Daniel Ellsworth is the epitome of an independent artistry. He’s a prolific songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who allows himself the freedom to develop his sound across a wide variety of genres and projects.
“When I first wrote and recorded “Flower Underground”, the working title on the session was “Is This Music?” It was one of the very first things I ever fully produced on my own and I was throwing a ton of paint at the wall (Jazz piano solo in the middle of a pop song? Sure, why not) just to see what would stick. I found this audio sample that had the phrase “Like a flower underground” that I really loved and that led to the stream of consciousness lyrics you hear in the song. I wasn’t sure when I wrote it, but listening to it now I can hear that it’s about the uncertainty of throwing in the towel on my old life and moving to the west coast after 15 years in Nashville. Was I making the right decision? Am I letting people down? But then very quickly learning that it was exactly what I needed to do. It’s about coming out of a heavy darkness into some new light.”
Daniel’s and independent and collaborative works have been featured in a long list of films, TV episodes, and international ad campaigns. Now an established pop composer, he continues to produce and write collaboratively, expanding his extensive repertoire with regular releases from his three current projects, Daniel Ellsworth & The Great Lakes, Chaos Emeralds, and DARKMINDS, as well as his work as a solo artist. Despite his frequent collaboration and dexterity across genres, Ellsworth’s music is distinct: there is always the perfect hook, bold melodic lines that feel inventive and at the same time immediately recognizable.
We recently checked out rising viral modern pop star Havanna Winter and stunning new single “Death Wish” The track was produced by David Arkwright (Bella Poarch, NCT DREAM, Illenium) and written by Maya K, Havanna Winter, Anette Winter, and David Arkwright
16 year old viral teen sensation Havanna Winter is a musical artist, actress, and influencer. In 2020 she gained worldwide attention after going viral on TikTok and currently has a fanbase of over 6 million followers across her social media platforms.
Havanna was born in Oslo, Norway, but spent her childhood summers in Spain. With Spanish summers and Viking winters running through her veins, she made the transatlantic move to Los Angeles, California at the age of 9.
On “Death Wish “ Havanna Winter delivers an absolutely flawless and captivating vocal performance that iswell beyond her 16 years
You can listen to listen to “Death Wish” on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here
Havanna says, “Deathwishis about love and how romance is unpredictable and a bit of a double edged sword if you will. Sometimes it’s a blessing and other times a lesson, but you never know in advance, and you have no choice but to gamble, even with your heart at stake, because if you don’t, you might miss out on the most incredible part of life and something true, real, and meaningful.
Havanna continues “The inspiration behind it came from one of my favorite movies: Baz Luhrmann’s ‘Romeo and Juliet.’ I am so obsessed with the theme of the movie, with a mix of Shakespearean and the Roman Catholic, modern-fashion-pop-culture, being the most beautiful, yet most tragic love story of all time.”
Havanna Winter is definitely one to watch in 2023 and beyond
The Whole Kameese 