What I’m Listening To #14

What I’m Listening To, the blog series in which I reflect on all the music I’ve been exploring during the last few months. Press play on the playlist below, listen along and join me on this inspirational journey. Post your recommendations in the comments!

Joey Valence & Brae – Punk Tactics + No Hands
Earlier this year, a friend of mine introduced me to a song called “Punk Tactics” and I became immediately hooked on this hip-hop duo. Like I mentioned in #13, Joey Valence & Brae are like the reincarnated Beastie Boys and have seemingly arrived out of nowhere at the top of their game with hard-hitting beats, creative sampling and lyrics filled with humorous pop culture references. Listening to their self-produced debut and sophomore albums back-to-back and experiencing their live show, I notice how everything they do music-wise seems to originate in such a flawless manner. Being completely independent, they’re a prime example of how artists don’t need lots of expensive, high-end equipment to be creative and successful. And the show was nothing short of awesome, with high energy from the boys and the crowd shouting along every word, losing their minds in the mosh pits. These two are going to get far, mark my words.

Twenty One Pilots – Trench
Continuing my exploration of Twenty One Pilots’ discography, though not in any logical way. Hearing the 2018 album “Trench” after 2015’s “Vessel” it’s cool to notice the band’s evolution. The most striking difference is how Tyler and Josh take time to let these tracks build and breathe, not narrowing them down for the sake of creating formulaic or radio-friendly pop songs. It proves that this duo has a mature perspective on the art of making music, something I really appreciate. So far, I have enjoyed “Vessel” a little more thanks to its catchy melodies and higher energy, but “Trench” has convinced me that Twenty One Pilots certainly has more in store for me to discover.

Aurora – Infections of a Different Kind (Step 1)
Special thanks to my girlfriend for introducing me to Aurora, a young Norwegian singer-songwriter who smoothly fuses ethereal electronica with choral style vocals, tribal percussion and other unexpected sounds. The album maintains a well-found balance between beautiful and sometimes intense sonic landscapes and is not afraid to sound experimental. The brilliance lies in its ability to provide enough structure and a little dash of pop music, keeping the listener fully engaged. Up for a mystical music experience? Try listening to “Infections of a Different Kind” very early in the morning after just waking up, preferably while watching the sunrise, and feel the music transcend the speakers.

S P E C I A L
S I N G L E S
Songs that have caught my attention.

NF – “Motto”
Badass. How have I never heard of this guy before?

Chris Webby – “Day By Day”
Love that looped guitar riff and catchy hook!

My Chemical Romance – “Teenagers”
Just pure and fun rock n’ roll.

blink-182 – “Feeling This”
I’m really feeling this song… *ba-dum-tss.

Linkin Park – “The Emptiness Machine”
A solid comeback despite the unusual female vocals.

Green Day – “Brain Stew”
The way this song builds is just *chef’s kiss.

Five Times August – “Counterfeit World”
The man never disappoints!