3 Songs: On Repeat - Extended Edition

Lettuce – “Everybody Wants To Rule The World” (The long-running jazz/funk hybrids return today with their sixth album, Elevate.  Even after over 25 years as a band, they still sound fresh and experimental, incorporating touches of Ethiopian funk, Latin spice, bluesy soul and even trip-hop into their already expansive sound.  Check out their silky smooth cover of the Tears For Fears classic, “Everybody Wants To Rule The World” featuring a blissful vocal performance from keyboardist Nigel Hall, here.) https://www.lettucefunk.com/    

Stream: https://fanlink.to/lett_ruletheworld

Calexico And Iron & Wine – “Midnight Sun” (Calexico and Iron & Wine first collaborated in 2005, releasing the excellent EP, In the Reins.  Today they return with their long-awaited full-length follow up, Years to Burn, out now on Sub Pop.  With an improvisational spirit, Sam Beam, Joey Burns and John Convertino take their distinct individual sounds and turn them into something new entirely with elements of country, rock, folk and nearly everything in between.  It’s just a shame it took so long for this to happen but once you listen, you will be glad that it exists in the world.) https://calexicoandironandwine.bandcamp.com/album/years-to-burn     

Stream: https://calexicoandironandwine.bandcamp.com/track/midnight-sun

The Head And The Heart – “Honeybee” (In less than a decade, The Head And The Heart have evolved from indie-folk darlings to full-fledged Coachella-pop heavyweights.  Their recently released fourth album, Living Mirage, out now on Warner Records is more dynamic and pop-leaning; having been produced by the duo of Tyler Johnson and Alex Salibian, best known for producing Harry Styles and Sam Smith.  The result is as anthemic and life-affirming as ever with the addition of hip-hop inspired production, Gospel-soaked melodies and a road-worn maturity.) http://www.theheadandtheheart.com/         

Stream: https://soundcloud.com/theheadandtheheart/honeybee

Silversun Pickups – “Freakazoid” (The California quartet recently released their fifth album, Widow’s Weeds, on their own label, New Machines Recordings.  Produced by Butch Vig, it is their most immediate and striking album yet with loads of catchy hooks bursting from their layered sound which features Cure-like synths and soaring strings.  Lyrically, it may their most personal and revealing as well yet with a positive spin and themes of renewal.  The standout single here with its 80’s production and positive message is the perfect example.)  https://silversunpickups.com/   

Stream: https://youtu.be/UDI-MgDBMn8

Rat Fancy – “RIP Future” (The L.A.-based quartet led by Diana Barraza and Gregory Johnson recently released their highly-anticipated debut album, Stay Cool, via HHBTM Records/Solidarity Club. Produced by David Newton of 80’s indie-poppers The Mighty Lemon Drops; their debut offers a nostalgic 90’s-inspired brand of power-pop and pop-punk with a sweet side of twee.  Lyrically, Barraza skews personal and slightly political but remains unashamed and witty.) https://ratfancy.bandcamp.com/album/stay-cool-2        

Stream: https://ratfancy.bandcamp.com/track/rip-future