New this week / Singles in review

Viet Cong - Throw it Away



Viet Cong is comprised of the former members of noise pop band Women. “Throw It Away” is the single from their newly released EP, the aptly titled Cassette. The track also catches the band at it’s most straightforward and catchy. Features some angular, flowery guitar playing and some cool off-kilter basslines.

Speedy Ortiz - Bigger Party



Massachusetts band Speedy Ortiz contribute a track to the always great Adult Swim Singles Series. “Bigger Party” is a dirty, grungy, in-your-face track. Songwriter Sadie Dupuis is in top form as she fearlessly sings, “I’m sorry for the time that I made out with all your friends, I’m really a shit head.” The instrumentation is equally as chaotic and ridden with frustration.

Bat for Lashes - Skin Song



Bat For Lashes is the moniker for English musician Natasha Khan. “Skin Song” is her contribution to a compilation titled Body of Songs, an intriguing project to be released in 2015. It explores how medical science has the ability to influence music, with each song featuring a different part of the human anatomy.

Doprah - Whatever You Want



Doprah are a group on the rise. Not only have they recently signed to Arch Hill records, they have just released an extremely strong debut EP. “Whatever You Want” is a track from that release, and features hook after hook. The song is dark, ominous and dream-like, as layer after layer begins to unravel. The chorus is as memorable as anything.

Christopher Owens - Stephen



A few years ago Christopher Owens left well-loved pop band Girls. Since then he has released a solo album and is now on the verge of releasing another one. The track “Stephen” showcases his ability to be a musical chameleon as it heads in the fully-fledged gospel territory. Known for his honest, heavily personal lyrics, the track deals with his crazy upbringing and his often strained relationship with his dad.
This article first appeared in Issue 16, 2014.
Posted 5:12pm Sunday 20th July 2014 by Adrian Ng.