REVIEWS | New Music Discoveries 011

Volume 011 is a sonic journey—for storytellers, rule-breakers, and anyone chasing raw emotion in every note. This week’s picks dive deep into alt-rock grit, nostalgic pop-rock, and genre-bending anthems with heart and edge. From Chewy Soliloqui’s live-energy-fueled psychedelic rock to Julianna Joy’s fearless alt-pop debut, these tracks are more than music—they’re vivid snapshots of life’s highs, lows, and everything in between.

"Chew On This 2" by Chewy Soliloqui

Kansas City’s genre-blending quintet Chewy Soliloqui returns with their new EP "Chew On This 2". Following their 2024 debut, this four-track release pushes alternative rock boundaries with psychedelic textures, grunge riffs, and raw lyrics. The lead single, “Allegations”, features driving bass and atmospheric guitar, showcasing the band’s more mature sound. Recorded mostly live at Avenue Records Co., the EP captures real-time energy and personal storytelling.

"Wasted" by Lost Velvet

Lost Velvet’s "Wasted" drifts between beauty and grit — a brooding alt-rock slow-burn where shoegaze haze meets post-rock intensity. With layered guitars, cinematic textures, and dual vocals that both haunt and swell, the UK duo deliver a hypnotic rise that’s equal parts dream and distortion.

"GHOSTS" by Kinsley

Rooted in Appalachian folklore and laced with modern rock textures, "GHOSTS" is a spellbinding EP from Raleigh duo Kinsley. With richly layered acoustic instrumentation, lap steel, and atmospheric field recordings, the project conjures a haunting, immersive journey through memory, myth, and melody. Songs like “Cothran” and “Catamount” blend personal history with eerie legend, creating a sound that’s both grounded and otherworldly. A quietly powerful release that rewards close listening.

"Ride With Me" by Savage Banks

Savage Banks brings the heat with "Ride With Me", a country-rock-rap anthem built for backroads and bonfires. Self-produced in his Mission, BC studio, the track blends swagger, grit, and good-time energy — echoing influences like Jelly Roll and Yelawolf, while carving a lane that’s all his own. Originally sparked as a joke, Ride With Me became one of Savage’s favorite creations: a full-throttle summer banger that feels as real as it sounds.

"Buttercups" by Ava Valianti

At just 15, Ava Valianti delivers a standout moment with "Buttercups" — a soaring pop-rock anthem filled with aching nostalgia and emotional clarity. Built on delicate piano and guitar before erupting into a driving chorus, the track captures the bittersweet memories of love and loss with striking maturity. Poised for her debut EP, Ava proves once again that she’s not just a rising voice — she’s one with staying power.

"Right Side of Time" by Jimmy Stanfield

Melbourne’s Jimmy Stanfield steps out with "Right Side of Time", a warm, self-produced debut blending rootsy songwriting with lush arrangements. The new single “Maybe I’m Doing Something Right by Me” features horns from Joe Auckland (Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds), adding a soulful touch to Stanfield’s reflective storytelling. With contributions from a stellar cast and cover art painted by his father, this is a heartfelt and finely crafted introduction.

"Somebody Call The Firemen!" by Julianna Joy

Julianna Joy’s debut album "Somebody Call the Firemen!" is a fierce, emotionally-charged alt-pop ignition. With breakout singles like “Goldstar” and “The Year I Lived as You”, she’s rapidly carving a space in LA’s indie scene. Produced by Teddy Geiger, the record blends bold vulnerability with sharp, hook-heavy songwriting. A fearless first statement from an artist impossible to ignore.

Want to be included?

Sign up as a musician and submit your music!