We’re back, folks. Somehow my cheekily-named, monthly column not only made it past the chopping block, but into a second month. I’m thrilled to bring you another slate of awesome local music released this past month. But it wouldn’t be a proper October article without a stupid Halloween pun, so… Here goes: No tricks. All treats. Read on and turn the volume up.
Reviews by TJ Foster
Canella - “Cookie Sweet”
Honestly not sure how Canella hasn't blown up yet. Latest single "Cookie Sweet" demonstrates they keep getting better, injecting the 518 with a sweet sweet slice of grunge-infused indie rock that's sure to quickly become a live favorite. This quartet is raising the bar for the rest of us and we're here for it.
Noah XO - “TOO MUCH”
Not sure where Noah XO came from, but I’m happy he came out of hiding because when it comes to radio-ready pop, he sure knows his stuff. “TOO MUCH” is as good as anything you’d hear from mainstream level artists with mainstream level budgets, and it’s coming from right here in the Capital Region.
Little Saints - “Harvest”
The Natalie Santini-led trio has been making quite a name for themselves over the last couple years, and for good reason. Santini has an undeniable knack for melody, and her wintry croon suits these delicate arrangements well. "Harvest" might just be their best release yet.
Camtron5000 - “Life Is a Gift”
Local rap star Camtron5000 joins forces with his friend -- and occasional bandmate -- Mirk, to deliver a Halloween-themed tale about a mad scientist and his creation. Per usual, the beats and rhythms are top notch. Cam just doesn't miss.
Dave Graham and the Disaster Plan - “Johnny Was a Mystery”
Dave Graham and the Disaster Plan joins up with Gus from Blackcat Elliot and Rob from The Lawn Sausages to pen a tribute song to the late Johnny Mystery, a member of both of those aforementioned bands. The garage rocker is a touching way to honor their friend, who clearly "loved that rock n' roll".
The Jagaloons - “Wolfman’s Got Nards!”
A special Halloween-themed track released by local surf-rock stalwarts, The Jagaloons. Would be great background music for your Halloween party – sure, it's the day after Halloween, but I’m not judging you. Go ahead and keep partying like there's something lurking beneath your bed. Might be Wolfman. And apparently he's got nards.
Deb Cavanaugh and Dandelion Wine - “Smile”
Deb Cavanaugh's latest folk tune is all very "peace, love and understanding". A very timely release given the turmoil we're likely to endure next week, and a lovely sentiment in the lyrics to boot. Deb is a local treasure.
Zoboo Mafoo - “Uncle Sam’s Grave”
Zoboo Mafoo – a new project from Boss Crowley’s Ben Gorman and The Pine Boys' Andrew Cerone – dropped their first and only single, a lo-fi, bedroom pop jam based around some old school keyboards and a sometimes melodic, sometimes rhythmic lead vocal. It's all very Modest Mouse-ish in spirit, which is something not a lot of people can emulate effectively.
Joe Mansman & the Midnight Revival Band - “Down Like a Dog”
“Down Like a Dog” sees Joe Mansman & the Midnight Revival Band returning to form, of sorts. That form? Good ol’ fashioned outlaw rock. Earworm riffs and melodies abound for ya right here.
UnRendered - “the cabin dream”
Cody from alt-rock quartet Seize Atlantis debuted this new side project last month, and he's already back with a second single. Rife with spooky vibes, this one slogs along at an appropriately eerie pace. A nice experimental cut with some Trent Reznor vibes.
Spotify users can also check out October’s playlist right here.