big hooks, heavy intent and emotionally charged storytelling give us this week’s rock picks. from faith-fuelled bangers to twin-led distortion, we’ve got it all. so let’s get go!
Against All Odds – Dual Variant
“dual variant unleash a relentless twin-powered anthem of perseverance“
against all odds, wastes literally no time locking into distorted bass and explosive drums, driving forward with raw melodic vocals at the centre. the chorus lands hard, melodically it’s great, and this is definitely built for huge stages, and maybe even arenas.
dual variant, the london, ontario twin duo of anthony and nicholas labarbera, continue refining their stripped-back attack of bass and drums only. this release marks another step in their upward run, doubling down on resilience and ambition with a sound that feels bigger than the lineup suggests. a banger.
thank u for making this dual variant 🔥
Free – Arctic Wave
“arctic wave deliver a soul-soaked rocker rooted in gratitude and grit“
free, opens on a playful and incredibly infectious groove before blossoming into a chorus carried by warm guitars and soulful backing vocals. it’s all funk-inflected rhythms with a smidge of classic rock textures, giving the track lift, depth and a whole lot of heart.
arctic wave, led by austin-based songwriter c.l. turner, channel personal history into something celebratory here. shaped by loss, faith and family, this release stands as a moment of gratitude and grounded perspective within their evolving alternative rock catalogue. it’s great.
thank u for making this arctic wave 🎸
Thistroubledsoul – Highroad No. 28
“highroad no. 28 dive deep into brooding alternative intensity“
thistroubledsoul, moves right into the world of cinematic guitars and brooding bass lines, anchored by an emotionally raw vocal performance. the atmosphere feels expansive still gives off an intimate vibe, with melodic weight pulling the listener into its internal conflict.
highroad no. 28, the australian alternative outfit fronted by andrew jc, push further into a darker and more introspective phase with this release. excitingly, it serves as a step toward their upcoming album, highlighting a matured sound rooted in vulnerability and endurance. can’t wait for the full length-er.
thank u for making this highroad no. 28 🎶
Despite The Sharpest Knives – Marcane
“marcane channels ferocious energy into a fearless modern rock statement”
despite the sharpest knives bursts forward with an emotionally urgent vocal and explosive instrumentation. it carefully blends punchy hooks with a shapeshifting electronic textures. it’s a compelling listen, and we love the tension in the delivery.
marcane, drawing from personal battles and emotional extremes, turns lived experience into something confrontational and cathartic. this release showcases his uncompromising voice and signals an artist carving out his own lane through a whole lot of intensity and authenticity. brilliant stuff.
thank u for making this marcane ⚡
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