Lomond Campbell Employs the Whims of the Machine
How much can intention affect an outcome? No, I am not speaking philosophically, though I’m sure there are plenty of term papers written on the dilemma. Rather, I am referring to the miracle that is LŪP by Lomond Campbell. Obviously the music does not happen spontaneously, but how it behaves is dependent, not upon the accuracy of an instrument and its player, but rather the … Continue reading Lomond Campbell Employs the Whims of the Machine
Tama Gucci is on the Cusp of Everything
As a music journalist, I’ve perpetually disappointed friends by not knowing who is the Next Big Thing. I don’t even know what the “in” genres are anymore, though I know from countless essays that hyperpop is having a moment in the limelight. The concept is a style I’ve been fascinated by for ages, but never had a word for. The movement that began with arrhythmic, … Continue reading Tama Gucci is on the Cusp of Everything
Glass Gallery, Ideal for Projection
We open on a pastel, multi-color fortress. The sea buffets its stone foundation from the west, while a forest shrouds the eastern entrance. The structure itself is entirely glass with not a blemish on any part of its façade, glowing from within to give the illusion of color on every translucent wall. From the wrong angle, the fortress may appear invisible, and with poor lighting, … Continue reading Glass Gallery, Ideal for Projection
Best Albums of 2021, 11-20 (part 2)
Alice Phoebe Lou – Glow The first of two records released by Alice Phoebe Lou in 2021, Glow is filled with yearning. The South African artist discusses matters of the heart among cool, sparse soft rock. Vocals on the title track have a sassy lilt that embraces the guitar progression, all of which amounts to Lou’s brand of psych rock. There is much beauty in simplicity, … Continue reading Best Albums of 2021, 11-20 (part 2)
Best Albums of 2021, 11-20 (part 1)
Bryan Away – Canyons to Sawdust On the pastoral Canyons and Sawdust, Bryan Away’s storytelling is given the perfect stage. Among the tales he sings is a nod to Ingmar Bergman’s miniseries (you may know its adaptation with Oscar Isaac and Jessica Chastain) and that track’s direct foil, the jaunty “Scenes from a Wedding.” The title of Away’s summer LP derives from an analogy in an … Continue reading Best Albums of 2021, 11-20 (part 1)
Best Songs of 2021
As is every list published on this blog, these “best songs” of the year are my opinion. That said, I am nixing the best videos list this year and so I felt it was only right to extend the songs list again. Scroll on to enjoy my favorite fifteen songs of the year. YouTube and Soundcloud playlists are available for your convenience; be advised that … Continue reading Best Songs of 2021
A Year Without Music
This year, the blog turned six. Not that I count the birthdays of Sawdust & Gin at all. (I often forget that I created it just days before my own birthday, so the festivities get muddled.) Its fifth year was easily my favorite—the onset of the pandemic gave me a challenge, one that I overcame with a surprising amount of resolve. There were a few … Continue reading A Year Without Music
Celebrate Dia de los Muertos & Spooky Season with “La Maldita Bruja” by Nancy Sanchez
Originally appeared on Grimy Goods. It’s spooky season, and while you prepare an elaborate Halloween costume, give a listen to the haunting melodies of Nancy Sanchez. The LA-via-Mexico singer/songwriter is known for her rich blend of musical styles, culminating in a genre which she has coined Mexican-American art pop. Her latest single is more a dirge compared to her notable high tempo tracks, and it … Continue reading Celebrate Dia de los Muertos & Spooky Season with “La Maldita Bruja” by Nancy Sanchez
Ambar Lucid Reveals More of Herself in ‘Mixto’ X Spotify Singles
Originally appeared on Grimy Goods. Everyone is falling in line behind the passionate artistry of Ambar Lucid. With support from YouTube Music, television syncs, and the folks who sold out her forthcoming Troubadour show, her star is just beginning to shine at maximum lumens. The Mexican-Dominican musician released Get Lost in the Music EP earlier this year and, more recently, has revealed two exclusive singles … Continue reading Ambar Lucid Reveals More of Herself in ‘Mixto’ X Spotify Singles
Illuminati Hotties’ Release Mesmeric Single “Threatening Each Other Re: Capitalism” Ahead of Tour Supporting Death Cab For Cutie
Originally appeared on Grimy Goods. Photo credit: Lissyelle Laricchia. As we near the release date for their new album, Let Me Do One More, illuminati hotties deliver a new slow-burning single. The local tenderpunk band, helmed by Sarah Tudzin, recently announced a tour accompanying Death Cab For Cutie, as well as a local show at Zebulon to celebrate the new record. The unhurried new track “Threatening Each Other Re: … Continue reading Illuminati Hotties’ Release Mesmeric Single “Threatening Each Other Re: Capitalism” Ahead of Tour Supporting Death Cab For Cutie
Sawdust & Gin 