Tom Gallo
Tom Gallo is the host of Look at My Records on Radio Free Brooklyn
Radio Free Brooklyn and Bushwick Daily are proud to announce a new weekly local-music column that will focus on artists that call Bushwick home. Each week, a Radio Free Brooklyn personality will pen a record or performance review of a different Bushwick based artist, with a curated selection of the best upcoming local gigs in the neighborhood for the following weekend.
“Impossible Bouquet,” the new album from Brooklyn based foursome Absolutely Yours, represents the direction that dream pop is trending towards amongst New York City based bands. The songs are brighter and driven by powerful melodies with delicate guitars and lurid synths – all blended together to create ethereal soundscapes. Absolutely Yours succeed in elegantly crafting sparkling pop songs in this vein,
but they truly shine when they keep it simple. One of the highlights of this six-song collection is the brief, but captivating track “Something Else,” which features lead vocalist Bridget Collins’ haunting voice longingly repeating the phrase “there must be something else.” The balance of the songs fit together seamlessly and deliver an almost somnambulant feel driven largely by the strength of her melodic power.
In particular, “Diagonal Lines,” the first track on the EP, features a glistening guitar riff overlaid with relaxed, hushed vocals that relay the uncertainty of sorting out life’s competing interests. The lush tones featured on the songs “The Truth,” “Swan Dive” are fondly reminiscent of the earlier work of another Brooklyn band, dream-pop veterans Twin Sister. Although comparisons like this may abound, Absolutely Yours’ graceful instrumentation and polished sound suggests that this mature quartet has their own distinct sound that heeds several different influences and inspirations.
Unfortunately, a limited pressing of “Impossible Bouquet” on clear vinyl already flew off the shelves. However, you can purchase this EP via digital download on Bandcamp. Keep your fingers crossed for a second pressing!
Mid-August is a great time to get out and see some live music. Bushwick has you covered. You can check out these awesome shows this week:
Rodes Rollins, No Swoon at Elsewhere (Rooftop)
Wednesday August 8th, 2018 5 p.m.
Rodes Rollins’ sound has been described as the “love child” of a “spaghetti western and Nancy Sinatra.” If you’re not intrigued by that description, then I’m not sure what could possibly pique your interest. She’ll be joined by dream-pop trio, No Swoon, who just dropped another enchanting single, “Blame The Messenger.”
Jack Whitescarver, Jackie Mendoza, Grace Ives at Alphaville
Thursday August 9th, 2018 8 p.m.
Jack Whitescarver celebrates the long awaited release of his debut album, “Let’s Share Something,” on vinyl. Released digitally in late 2017, this 13-song release features computerized hooks, trance-like beats, and improvisational vocals. He’ll be joined by Gingerly’s vocalist Jackie Mendoza, and Grace Ives, whose both channel an eclectic, beat driven electronic pop sound.
Future Punx, Sleepies, Big Bliss, Big Band at Secret Project Robot
Friday August 10th, 2018 8 p.m.
Secret Project Robot plays host to some of the borough’s finest acts on Friday, including the “post-wave” sounds of Future Punx and psych outfit Sleepies. Those in attendance will also be treated to a double dose of Big styled post-punk from the likes of Big Bliss and Big Band. Fans of Big Bliss have a lot of look forward to in the coming months, as the band is preparing to release their debut full length album later this year.
Spud Cannon, Clearance, Hollywood Royalty at Trans Pecos
Saturday August 11th, 2018 10 p.m.
Spud Cannon are kicking off a two-week tour on Saturday night at Trans-Pecos. The band is fresh off the release of their excellent 2017 album “Next Time Ready The Fine Print,” which features some guest vocals from actor Gary Oldman. Chicago’s Clearance are touring the country in support of their brand new album, “At Your Leisure.” The record is a catchy collection of jangly indie rock tunes that evokes memories of some of the greatest bands of the genre, including The Feelies, Pavement, and The Clean. Local three-piece Hollywood Royalty will handle opening duties for this late show that starts at 10pm.
