October Playlist: Local Artists Showcase

By Maci Woody
Music Journalist

Meanswell- Meanswell

Every time this song plays, a bad boy from an 80s high school movie locks eyes with Molly Ringwald at the school prom from across the dance floor and they make up. Okay but seriously, who’s not a sucker for a classic slow song about heartbreak? The belted lyrics are heartfelt, and the instruments are incredibly expressive. This particular track also comes with one of the best quality music videos i’ve seen in a LONG time. The shots are gorgeous and the music video itself is timeless in both a futuristic and retro way. Meanswell (formerly The Gents) has nailed the timeless look and sound of late 60s-80s and is coming back stronger than ever with their new self-titled EP — cementing themselves as my first draft for my local music playlist.

http://meanswellband.weebly.com/

Bahamacide- Locked inside

Stoner rock has never been so chill and tense. Bahamacide is based out of Austin, Texas and has recently released their first full-length album “Taking Control” this August. The album features seven tracks. Ultimately, I decided on “Locked Inside” for its slow creeping start, clever tempo changes and impressive guitar solo at the end. The full album is currently available on their bandcamp.

Clever Heads Prevail- That Life You Think You Got Pt. 1

Clever Heads Prevail is from San Marcos, Texas and I cannot say enough great things about this band and this song. It starts off with a drifty guitar riff, and is shortly joined with a raspy yet smooth vocals. The song then transitions into a more tense, thumping riff. There are so many things Clever Heads Prevail did right in this song like: the chorus effect at the beginning, the gorgeous layering of the vocals, the clever articulate lyrics and the slow increase to the intense and stunningly beautiful ending. The synchronicity between the band members throughout the song forms a complete picture of what the song is conveying is incredible. I urge you to check it out for yourself on their bandcamp.

Kairos- Soothe My Soul

Kairos has finally graced us with their new album Cuatro, after a long wait for me since I saw them earlier this year at KTSW’s own MR Fest. I knew I wanted one of their songs on my local music playlist but had a difficult time choosing which one. I chose “Soothe My Soul” for its fantastic lyrics, flawless transitions between moods and overall expressiveness by both instruments and singer. If you’re a fan of sublime or reggae/rock/hip-hop fan, I highly suggest listening to the rest of Cuatro. I promise you will not be disappointed.

https://kairos78666.com/music/

Baby Bangs- 53x

Baby Bangs is the cutest widdle punk band you will ever see. Identifiable as bubblegum-punk, Baby Bangs brings back the classic 90s punk we all know and love, and infuses it with new age college rock and some of the most pleasant sounding vocals i’ve ever heard. Honestly, I recommend you see them live to get the full experience, but for now check out their bandcamp. I’m recommending “53x” for its sickeningly sweet vocals that stay smooth even when belting, and the mellow instrumentals that rise up in defiance right alongside “Elena.”