Tag #Trio

Happy Little Clouds Have Us On Cloud Nine, With New Single, Clear and Present Danger”

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Artwork credit: Jac Mestel

We really love listening to music , Boston, based grit-pop band, Happy Little Clouds, is definitely one of those reasons. We recently had the amazing opportunity to check out their new single, “Clear&Present Danger”, via The Sound Cove. You can listen to “Clear & Present Danger, on Spotify Here, Apple Music Here and on Bandcamp Here

Known for their energetic, gritty blend of power pop and indie rock, this new release promises to captivate fans both old and new. We were absolutely mesmerized by the new single, “Clear & Present Danger” from Happy Little Clouds, they definitely hit a new level of awesomeness with this one .

“Clear & Present Danger” is a post-grunge earworm that showcases Happy Little Clouds’ raw energy and dynamic sound. The song’s groove and melody pair with an evocative lyrical journey. Set for release just after May Day, “Clear & Present Danger” taps into themes of resistance, including confronting narcissistic manipulation and toxic power structures.


Photo credit: Jac Mestel

“This topic feels super relevant right now,” said lead vocalist/guitarist Jac Mestel. “We all know someone like this—a boss, a partner, a relative, or even a politician—whose charm hides an ugly side. And we know the truth about them, and we are screaming to their fans and supporters, ‘How can you not see this?!’”

Clear and Present Danger” draws from those experiences, paired with the realization that a narcissist’s power is ultimately paper thin. Lyrics like, “I saw her hand was made of glass, which I could surely shatter,” empower listeners to break free from cycles of abuse. The single marks a bold statement for Happy Little Clouds’ forthcoming new album, which is set for release later this year.

As a musical unit, Happy Little Clouds, have always displayed next level musicianship, this is front and center on , “Clear&PresentDanger” , particularly the otherworldly drumming that is brilliantly featured on the track. For Jess Townsend—one of Boston’s most acclaimed rock drummers—the single was a true labor of love, pushing her to new creative heights.

“This is the drum beat that I’m most proud of to date,” she shared. “I have always wanted to incorporate a linear beat, and I worked really hard with the dynamics to make this one groove.” She credits the standout performance to her strong collaboration with Mestel and bassist Derek Bergstrom, whose creative energy helped bring out the best in her playing.

Bergstrom’s interesting use of bass distortion on the song fosters an ethereal soundscape. “The bass line was inspired by Gang of Four and The Replacements, with a nod to Future Islands,” he said.

“Clear & Present Danger” was recorded and mixed by Ethan Dussault at New Alliance and mastered by Pete Weiss at Jade Cow Audio—both in Somerville, MA. The song is available for streaming on all major platforms, including Apple Music, Bandcamp, and Spotify. “Clear & Present Danger” and other recent singles feature tarot-inspired original cover art, which can be viewed on the trio’s Bandcamp or website.

“Clear&Present Danger”, from Happy Little Clouds, is an important well crafted gem that needs to be heard.

Happy Little Clouds are:

Jac Mestel: Vocals, Guitar

Derek Bergstrom: Bass

Jess Townsend: Drums

Krooked Tongue Are Once Again In Full Bloom, With Latest Single “Marigold”

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From the moment we hit “Play”, on the new single, “Marigold” from Bristol (UK) rock trio Krooked Tongue, we knew we were listening to what we believe to be the future of rock music. You can listen to “Marigold” Here

Recorded and produced with long-time producer Josh Gallop at Stage 2 Studios in Bath, ‘Marigold‘ highlights the sophisticated, multidimensional capabilities of Krooked Tongue’s songwriting. A slight departure from the band’s usual gritty, anthemic rock, the track immediately pulls at the heart strings, lyrically exploring the ‘what could have been’s’.

Describing the single, vocalist and lyricist Oli Rainsford states, “‘Marigold’ is a love letter to the ‘what might’ve been’. Do you ever meet someone in passing and wonder where their life is going to end up? What struggles they might have, what their family is like, what they do in their spare time. I’ve always liked to people watch; you can defer so much from just a few seconds of looking at someone, and yet have no idea at all on how valid your assumptions are. Most of the time when we interact with strangers, it never gets a second thought. Maybe a subtle glance, or a smile here and there but mostly it’s a cold and disconnected endeavour. But then there’s those moments where you have instant chemistry with someone, and for a minute it’s electric; the room stops spinning and the chaos fades away. And then you never see that person again. Who knows where a split decision could’ve taken you. ‘Marigold’ is THAT electricity.

It’s a song that tries its best to put into words the love that lies dormant in us, waiting for someone to break open the safety glass. Although I think it’s less of a ‘love at first sight’ cliche and more of a homage to missed opportunities. ‘Marigold’ is a fascination with the high speed pace of everyday life, and how we ebb and flow into each other’s periphery…like atoms. Destined to live separately or destined to veer from the main road and see where a chance will take us. Like a flower, that only blossoms when the time is right.”

Krooked Tongue, is one of those special bands that you want to keep to yourself but also want to share with the universe at the same time. We have a feeling that “Marigold” is going to rule the top of many playlists.

With interest in the band quickly growing, in addition to the announcement of the single, Krooked Tongue are very excited to announce that they’ve signed a publishing deal with Wipeout Music, and have very recently joined TRUST Artists’ live roster, and hope to continue to cement themselves as an emerging band to watch in the UK.

We have known for quite sometime how special Krooked Tongue are….. We can’t wait for the rest of the world to find out as well.

Krooked Tongue Are Laser Focused On Latest Single, “Let ‘Em Loose”

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We recently had the amazing opportunity to check out the new single, “Let ‘Em Loose”, from Bristol,UK, rock trio Krooked Tongue

You can listen to “Let ‘Em Loose”, on Spotify Here, Apple Music Here, and on Amazon Here

The new single, “Let ‘Em Loose “, follows 2024’s ‘Nothing Ever Grows’ and ‘Ember Mile’, taken from a longer body of material, with further details to be announced in the coming months. Their previous singles saw support from Apple editorial’s ‘Breaking Hard Rock’, New Noise Magazine, CLOUT, Total Rock, Primordial Radio and Boogaloo Radio, and ‘Nothing Ever Grows’ was used throughout the Bivol vs Beterbiev boxing fight on DAZN Sports.

Krooked Tongue,(Oli Rainsford, vocals, bass, Dan Smith,guitar, vocals, Harry Pritchard, drums) have the amazing ability to take sounds and lyrics and construct songs that appeal to both the mind and soul , “Let ‘Em Loose” is not just a captivating song but it also serves as a powerful point for thought provoking discussion.

Recorded and produced with long-time producer Josh Gallop at Stage 2 Studios in Bath, the track uses playful phrasing, scathing sarcasm and sharp humour to cast a penetrating lens on the damaging toll technology is taking on real life relationships.

Describing the single, vocalist and lyricist Oli Rainsford states, “Let ‘Em Loose’ is a song that parallels the technological age we found ourselves in today. We’re all so addicted to screen time that we forget how important it is for us to spend time with each other, really with each other. No distractions.

Let ‘Em Loose’ is a song that reminds us to be a little more present in a world where it seems like being tethered to a plug socket is the norm. Whilst you’re scrolling reels or finding yourself down Youtube rabbit holes all night, you’re missing your kids growing up, you’re missing out on your Grandad’s most compelling stories and you’re eating away at the dwindling hourglass of time. It’s harder now more than ever NOT to be sucked into the world of social media, but in the words of Eddie Abbew… ‘Wake the fuck up.’

Oli continues: The lyrics in the chorus draw inspiration from the Black Mirror episode ‘Metalhead’. I think the way in which technology is represented as these robotic minions hunting people in rural settings is quite a relevant visualisation of the message in ‘Let ‘Em Loose’. Especially now with a sudden push for AI to do everything that’s made us human. Maybe there’s a place for that somewhere, but it shouldn’t be used where it can fragment society more than it already is now. We need to regain our sense of importance. ‘Let ‘Em Loose’ is your warning.”

So drop whatever you have going on and get lost in the musical goodness that is “Let ‘Em Loose” from Krooked Tongue.

Pollyanna Blue Delivers Mesmerizing New Single “Lovesick“ And It Is Absolutely Stunning

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Single Artwork by Zoe Collins – Instagram: @Zoemakesart.png

We recently had the distinct honor to check out the beautifully crafted new single “Lovesick”, from South-West based Alt-Rock trio,  Pollyanna Blue (and in case you are wondering???…. It’s absolutely spectacular)

You can listen to “Lovesick” Here

You can also watch the video for “Lovesick” below

Those of you who are regular readers of The Whole Kameese, know that we are not in the business of hiding our emotions about bands that we love, And….. Without question Pollyanna Blue is definitely one of those bands . Returning with their single of 2025, “Lovesick “ absolutely sparkles .

 An ironic Valentines Day release, ‘Lovesick’twists the very definition of the charming phrase, by exploring the notion that it might not turn out to be the idealistic type of yearning you once imagined…

Produced and recorded at Lower Lane Studios by Sam Bloor(roster including Heavy Music Award 2024 winners Graphic Nature, Dream State, Black Coast, Graywave, Mercury and Queen Cult, etc), ‘Lovesick’ is an anthem for the disillusioned admirers and unlucky lovers on this years February 14th.

About new single “Lovesick”, Pollyanna Blue comment:

“Lovesick”is a different take of the commonly used phrase and plays on the idea that falling for someone isn’t always a good thing. In this take, the feelings of infatuation isn’t one that is wanted and over time makes you feel sick of being in love.

Taking their name from the book ‘Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway’ which describes the nickname ‘Pollyanna‘ given to the optimistic, and juxtaposing that with ‘Blue’ to represent sadness even the most positive amongst us can feel, Pollyanna Blue started up in 2019 just before the world went into lockdown. As a band spread across Bristol, Exeter and Hereford, they adapted their songwriting process to sharing demos and creative ideas via online mediums until they were ready to meet up in Bristol and work on it in person.


Polyanna Blue taken by Sophie Eacock – Instagram: @Sophiealice.creative
Photo edited by Zoe Collins – Instagram: @Zoemakesart.png

Our first introduction to Pollyanna Blue , was in 2022, with the hypnotic single , “Haunted “ ever since then we have been hooked on the melodic and sonically pleasing sounds of Pollyanna Blue . ever since.

Musically, Pollyanna Blue have brought a little bit of something from each members music taste, Zoe bringing the melody and influence of 2000s emo and pop rock of bands such as Fall Out Boy, Paramore, My Chemical Romance, Rich bringing the heavy and alternative sonic of Garbage, Thornhill, Wolf Alice and Neil brining the high energy sounds from Vukovi, Gojira and Yonaka. The three have created a modern punchy alt-rock wall of sound that sounds familiar in many ways, yet something that can only be defined to them

The musicianship, in Pollyanna Blue, is off the charts . “Lovesick “ is a song that surrounds all your senses and pulls you in close as you are awash in beautiful melodic tones that are woven between flawless, otherworldly vocals . Pollyanna Blue, has sculpted a work of art with “Lovesick”

Let Me Downs Deliver Big Time With A Stunning Collection Of Melodically Amazing Punk Rock Gems With New LP- “North By Southwest

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Recently while waiting for appointment a gentleman struck up a conversation with me about music . He boldly proclaimed that “Punk Was Dead” and he hadn’t heard a good punk band since 1991 . Well obviously he was wrong (in our opinion ) He also obviously hasn’t heard of Tacoma Washington trio Let Me Downs, who has been delivering kick ass punk rock since 2019. We recently got the stellar opportunity to check out their new LP “North By Southwest “ which is now out via Felony Records.

You can listen to “North By Southwest “ on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here

Photo: Keith Stein

We were immediately enthralled with “North By Southwest “ , Let Me Downs have really a beyond spectacular record that has already found it’s way on to our top records of 2025. ( We know it’s early but we don’t see this one moving off our list anytime soon)

From the opening track on , “North by Southwest “ , Let Me Downs, deliver a punk rock de force that is a melodically and socially pleasing work of art .

“North By Southwest” was recorded at Razors Touch Studios in El Cajon, CA, and was engineered and produced by Chad Ruiz (Urethane, Skipjack). Mastered by Scott Hallquist (Ten Foot Pole, DC Fallout). 

Let Me Downs , manage to construct a familiar but unique sound that is 100% all their own and we love every freaking minute of it.

If punk rock is your thing, you owe it to yourself to clear your schedule and completely surround yourself in the punk brilliance that is “North By Southwest “ The album doesn’t have a single back track, it’s truly 30 minutes of punk nirvana .

Some of our favorite tracks include “Broken Promises” ( We love the melodic driving beat ) , The opening guitar on “Home Sweet Home “ is literally a thing of punk beauty. The fact that they have “Hey Jealousy “ on this record automatically makes Let Me Downs , freaking legends ( seriously the cover is absolutely stunning) The closing track , “One More Round”, is Let Me Downs, at their absolute best and they have amazingly have Rocky Balboa included- Epic

You can order the LP and merch Here

The complete album is available on vinyl, ( The Vinyl is absolutely freaking gorgeous) CD and all streaming platforms. Catch Let Me Downs on tour in 2025! 

More dates TBA.

1/24- Tower Bar- San Diego, CA w/Urethane, Miles to Nowhere, Punch Card

1/25- South Bay Customs- El Segundo, CA w/Implants, Miles to Nowhere, Empired

2/7- Twilight Cafe & Bar- Portland, OR w/Chaser, Ninjas with Syringes, The Brass

2/8- Funhouse- Seattle, WA w/Chaser, Head Honcho

3/21- Spur Bar- Star Valley, AZ – w/ It’s Fine, Vices To The Grave

3/22- Yucca Tap Room- Tempe, AZ w/Chaser, No Gimmick, It’s Fine

Falsely Accused Deliver Wicked New Single “Witches”

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We recently had the amazing opportunity to check out the new single “Witches” from New England alternative trio Falsely Accused. You can listen to “Witches” on Spotify Here, Apple Music Here And on Bandcamp Here

We were instantly mesmerized by the devilishly wicked and hypnotic sounds of “Witches” Falsely Accused has crafted a beyond memorable groove on “Witches” , that will stay with you long after the music has faded.

Normally, releasing a single called “Witches” in October would allude to some spooky, Halloween-related themes. But for bassist and vocalist Matt Tavano, the origin story of these “Witches” is rooted in something far more scary – where a sense of dread from an impending physical confrontation is augmented by the fact that most of the general public is becoming increasingly unhinged.  

‘Witches’ is about a road rage incident I was involved in a couple years ago that quickly escalated into a roadside robbery,” Tavano admits. “As the scenario was playing out it seemed like violence was going to be unavoidable. But with a little luck, everyone went home in one piece, even the bad guys. It was, as they say, a wicked nail biter.” 

Tavano won’t get too deep into the specifics beyond that. But one part of the tense ordeal stuck with him so much, he took it to the band – rounded out by Mike Azzolino on drums, percussion, and backup vocals; and Mark Young on guitar and backup vocals – and soon the seeds for what would become “Witches” were planted. 

Where the explosive “A Drink Before the War” leaned into the Falsely Accused’s newfound heaviness, raising the volume on a post-grunge sound while steering away from the bluesy swamp rock muck heard on their 2021 debut album Compression, “Witches” finds a middle ground between the two eras. Both are linked by the power-riff for the emerging rock trio, which formed just before the pandemic as Young completed the lineup after Tavano and Azzolino were looking for a fresh start after a previous project faded out

Written and performed by Falsely Accused, “Witches” was recorded and engineered by Steve Aliperta at Kennedy Studios in Burlington, Massachusetts, and mastered by Dominik Honold at Protonaut Studios in Erkelenz, Germany. 

Courtesy Of The Band

“Witches” from Falsely Accused is both a sonic and melodic marvel that showcases a band that is firing on all cylinders-Bravo

Happy Little Clouds Craft Stunning New Single “Lungs”

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Artwork credit: Jac Mestel

We recently had the extraordinary opportunity to check out the new single “Lungs” from Boston rock trio Happy Little Clouds .

You can listen to “Lungs” on Spotify Here , Apple Music Here and on BandCamp Here

With their latest single “Lungs”, Happy Little Clouds, have created an absolute gem .

Happy Little Cloud’s previous two releases were both up-tempo and high-energy, while “Lungs”holds back on the tempo, but turns up the emotional energy.

Photo credit: Jac Mestel

“We felt it was time to release a ballad after two rockin’ numbers,” said drummer, Jess Townsend
(she/her/hers). “From the moment Jac brought this one to the band, I felt it’s familiarity on a soul
level. It just sits in the middle of your chest and squeezes.”

“Lungs” is the perfect storm of emotions and intoxicating melodies. Happy Little Clouds have given music lovers everywhere an absolute musical work of art.

“The listener can really make this song their own,” said Jac Mestel (they/them/ theirs),who is re-sponsible for the song’s vocals, guitar, and organ. ”Each verse can be like someone grappling with a major life-shattering event as they go through a whole hero’s journey arc within the span of a 3-minute song. As the song progresses, they deal with their constantly changing feelings or stages
of grief, or self acceptance and by the end, they work up the strength to believe in themselves and regain a sense of pride.”

“I feel like the song is very powerful and comes from a personal place and could mean so much to so many people struggling,” said JD Bergstrom (he/him/his), the group’s bassist. “It’s not lightheart-
ed, but it is positive.”

Happy Little Clouds are a band that we simply can’t get enough of. We can’t wait to see what happens next.

Pollyanna Blue Deliver An Absolutely Otherworldly New Single With “Vultures”

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For those of you who follow The Whole Kameese on a regular basis, know that when we find an artist or band that we are over the moon about , we can’t help but use our platform to tell the universe about how we feel about the artist or band . Well … there is one band that everytime they release new music we are immediately obsessed with . That band of course, is Bristol-(U.K.) based alt-rock trio Pollyanna Blue . ( Zoe Collins-guitar, vocals, Rich Earle, bass, vocals and Neil Loftus , drums)

We have been big on these guys since we heard their wicked single “Haunted” in October of 2022.

The brand new single “Vultures” is Pollyanna Blue at their absolute best . You can listen to “Vultures” on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here

We are absolutely smitten with the tone and overall sound of “Vultures “ from Pollyanna Blue. The members of Pollyanna Blue are all highly skilled musicians that bring a high level of energy that is simply magical and it is on full display on “Vultures”

“Vultures” is a lemonade track. By taking some pretty crappy lemons that life throws your way and squeezing out all of the sour anger, the band have created a ferociously riffy dessert rock track, ready for you to taste. Most people have come across a vulture or two in their lifetime and this song is a way of warning you to watch out for these greedy birds, to run away from them and to let them know they won’t get away from what they’ve done.

“Vultures” is a well crafted song with strong and memorable lyrics that stay with you long after the song has faded.

Lyrically the fearlessness of self expression and narrating themes of mental health and navigating human complexity fits well with the origin of the band’s name, which was influenced by the self help book ‘Feel The Fear and Do it Anyway’. These lyrics are backed by a vocal performance from Zoe, who brings a beautifully soulful yet aggressive power.

Zoe Collins gives a flawless and electrifying vocal performance that is couple with catchy and memorable melodies that make “Vultures “ an absolute can’t miss.