Here’s a fresh batch of tunes that have tickled my speakers and/or headphones. These artists found their way into my Instagram feed, where I hope you’ll join me.

Traditionally, I don’t like comparing one act to another. But relatability tends to prompt interest. (This is how consultants work when pushing new bands. Sigh.) So, I’m going with that method until I think of something better.

A couple of playlists (ten songs from my YouTube channel and 30 from Spotify site) await you.

Enjoy!

MOONPOOL, “Like You Do.” Sludgy, grungy rock à la Weezer and other nineties sounds. Melodic monotone vocals with a cool groove. 

MELTT “Up All Night.” Not necessarily orignal, but a nice combo of styles presented in a uptempo, groovealistic style. A fun one.

DEARY, “Seabird.” Dreamy vocals flowing and around an ethereal backing track that brings memories of bands like Cowboy Junkies, albeit considerably more fun. 

SYBILANTA, “Beautiful Lies.” Tori Amos plays a tune written by Evanescence with Garbage producing. Very cool stuff.

ZYkR, “Rewind.” Synth-rock with a metal-ish edge. Radiohead could have played something like this, tho the vocals here have more breath in them. 

DELLA CHASE, “Burn.” Amy Winehouse-style vocals with slightly heavier rock and nicely placed strings. 

KATKROSS, “Operator.” Eurythmics embrace a darker, albeit bouncy, groove. Very cool use of synthesizers. 

CHENZO V, “Stillbirth.” Demanding vocals with an early Nine Inch Nails aesthetic. Heav-ish metal collides with electronica. So … industrial?

SKEETER de MILO, “Is This Food.” What on Earth is happening here? It’s heavy. It’s quirky. It’s trippy. It’s COOL. Probably my favorite on the is list. 

MONO MEANS ONE, “Imagined Battles.” Close to Prog with its majestic synth melody intertwined with the occasionally complex guitar riff. It’s a fun way to close your eyes and just BE. 

#cirdecsongs

If you would like to have your music reviewed or your band photographed while in Chicago, contact me at cirdecsongs@gmail.com