Let’s let in the sunlight: I thought I could get through spring without new songs. cowboy kerouac, Well, you were wrong, buddy. The single “Somehow I Survived” has just been released, and it’s funny (“What’s an email?/Why should I send an email?”), all under two minutes, and hilarious. I feel a sense of elation. Musically, it’s pretty straight-up folk-punk, with a lot less country feel than previous Cowboy releases. Check it out at cowboykerouac.bandcamp.com. There’s nothing else to say.
positive mental outlook: Emo punk rocker Phantom Dan has a new single called “Bad Habits” and like one of them, it took me a few tries before this one really grabbed me. It’s a Warped Tour-level crowd-pleasing behemoth, packed with multiple touchstones of third-wave emo music (chorus-heavy organ, rapped verses/sung choruses, breakdowns, etc.). Lyrically, this is like a Tony Robbins self-seminar, and once you hear it or watch the accompanying video, you’ll see what I mean. All in all, not bad at all and definitely a fun diversion. Find this on Spotify and follow us at facebook.com/phantomdan88.
pressing pause: Songwriter michael kearns It’s the whole atmosphere.He already has several full-length albums, and his latest is Dormant, is now on sale. Operating under a tent supported by a large framework constructed primarily of folk and pop bones, his vocals are rarely urgent, but mostly reserved and often resigned. I can see it. This album is quite long at his 15 songs, and while few artists would consider releasing a single on his album, there are some epic moments here that you might have otherwise missed. For example, “Replacement” is a hit waiting to happen with relatable lyrics and a catchy riff. Another highlight is the title song itself. At times it feels like a hymn, with lightly played chimes adding to the overall feel. This catalog and the rest of his catalog can be found on his Spotify. For more information, visit instagram.com/michaelcarnesmusic and facebook.com/bigzebratunes.
listen without prejudice: Musician of Athens parka rusk released their debut EP at the end of last year, but it’s only just landed on our desks here at the Old Cultural Arbitration Committee that it’s taken that long.The title is something scaryThe song is six tracks long, but the last two songs (“Make It Free” and “Concentration”) were each released as singles in 2022. At first glance, this all feels and sounds like something derived from her 1990s. -ish alternative rock High He’s a Flyer, but subsequent listens reveal a lot of delicacy and texture. The opening track “Darkest” is a great example of this, with multiple layers, thoughtful playing, and truly imaginative instrumentation. “Alien” has had similar success, but it’s also a bit harder. Honestly, this whole record was amazingly creative and worth listening to almost every second of it. Find this on Spotify.
liberate palestine: Brooklyn, New York label I hate quitting (stylized as HATETOQUIT) has just released an obnoxiously huge international compilation.The title is A relentlessly accelerating rhythm: artists united for freedom in Palestine, which includes several Athenian artists. These are: telemarket, Shumukh and Honey Puppy. And in addition to them, 52 other artists participate, with a total tracklist of 55 songs. According to a statement from the label, “All proceeds from sales of this compilation will be donated directly to the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund (PCRF) and the Palestinian Legal Society.” Well, I listened to this all the way through. I can easily report that this is one of the most listenable compilations of this size I’ve ever come across. Most of the time this stuff is full of junk, but this one is different. However, the chances of being able to play all 55 of his songs here are probably zero. If you still want to check it out, head over to hatetoquit.bandcamp.com.
Make sure you have a good time!: AthFest educatesA non-profit educational organization that supports all AthFest events and activities. Grant Application period Eligible for grants for the 2024-2025 academic year. Applications will be accepted until August 24th. The pool of funding awarded totals $65,000, with applicants able to request up to $5,000. These grants are available to teachers, community educators, and youth development professionals. According to information released by AthFest Educates, these grants are for “1) non-consumable music and arts-based supplies, such as musical instruments and audio/visual equipment; and 2) programs for students focused on music and arts. and 3) Music and Arts-Based Professional Development for Educators and Youth Development Professionals.” For more information and to apply, visit athfesteducates.org/apply-for-a-grant.
new mother nature: You already know that AthFest is huge, right? Now, his 2024 AthFest music and art festival will be even bigger. Plus, you’re very likely to meet so many groups and artists you’ve never seen or heard of before. I’ve never heard of it. Sure, there are still plenty of reliable old-school Athens bands playing as ear comfort, but this year is truly shaping up to be a festival of discovery, and I couldn’t be happier. Check out the full lineup online at flagpole.com and visit athfest.com for all information on Club Crawl ticket sales and more.
Did you like what you just read? Please support Flagpole by making a donation today. Every dollar you donate helps fund our ongoing mission to provide Athens with quality, independent journalism.