Sam Billen releases new full-length, Places

Sam Billen, whose covers I’ve previously raved about, released an original full-length, Places, earlier this month. The Lawrence, Kansas singer/songwriter charms with emotionally compelling, electronic indie-pop. His ranging falsetto vocals may remind some of Halloween, Alaska, another Knox Road favorite. ButĀ Places is a stirring listen on its own, and deserves to be more widely-recognized. Stream… Continue reading Sam Billen releases new full-length, Places

Hidden Pictures

Please believe me when I tell you I was not compelled to write about Hidden Pictures simply because of the male part of the duo’s striking resemblance to Elliott Smith. I mean, it certainly helped (and it’s pretty eerie), but their music struck me in a sweet spot as well. It’s simple, pop-infused rock, with… Continue reading Hidden Pictures

Doby Watson’s first “proper” record drops August 4

Folksy shmolksy two days in a row from me. That’s right, I’m going slowcore on your asses. I think the humidity is drawing me to a bit of a stall, evoking a need for such comforting music. Doby Watson, from Kansas, fits the bill perfectly, as fragile acoustics dominate – including guitar, tenor guitar, slide… Continue reading Doby Watson’s first “proper” record drops August 4