This past year was a tough one for the majority of us. Thank goodness there was indie music. Looking back over the 19 Monday Mashup columns we compiled during the year, we have selected the 20 Best Singles. Here they are in the order we featured them.
What a year this week has been. It is hard to believe that working at an eating establishment is considered an “essential business.” At Pizza Hut, they just told us yesterday of the changes they are doing during the COVID-19 crisis. Starting on Wednesday, our staff has been split into two groups. We will work alternating days from open to close, and will not be allowed to socialize with the other team. So one week I will be working four days (between 14-15 hours a day) with the following day off, and the following week three days of work and four days off. In addition, this “inside crew” will be the only ones allowed inside the store, as all the drivers must wait outside in their cars. When a delivery is ready, we will dispatch them from inside the store. We had a trial run on Saturday, and it worked quite well. Not sure how long this will last, but probably at least through the month of April.
In the meantime, it has been refreshing to hear all of the independent musicians participating in the #LIVEATHOME series. During these times, we need your music more than ever. Thank you for providing a refreshing escape from the utter chaos. We truly appreciate you.
If you are planning on doing this on a regular basis, please let us know and we will get the word out. In the meantime, here are five new singles and music videos that moved us this week.
NEW SINGLES
This week our first single is from an unknown British band named Tungz, who asks the important question, “Can’t we Just be Friends Again?” Our overwhelming response is “Absolutely!” We look forward to hearing more from this interesting and fresh new artist.
Next up is the eclectic artist known as Diners. His sound is a throwback to pop music of past decades but with a fresh approach to is truly unique. Check out his first single from his upcoming album, “Learning Curve.” We think you’ll want to hear more.
Our third single comes to us courtesy of Tunnel, a dynamic duo of unbridled talent. This song truly stands out with an amazing synth sound and lyrics that bring back memories of 80s symphonic bands. We are loving them and hope you enjoy “Walking the Waves” as much as we do.
Our next single comes from an artist whose voice sounds strangely familiar, and instantly likable. His name is Joel Plaskett and he shares his latest single “If There’s Another Road.” We think this one is worthy of the repeat button.
Our final single this week is “Noon Drunk,” a 60’s rocking tune from Ben Wood and The Bad Ideas. Even though we don’t necessarily agree with the sentiments, we do love the vibe of this song. Rock on.
NEW MUSIC VIDEOS
We start off this week’s new music videos with a pair from clients of one of our favorite publicity guys, Doug Deutsch Publicity Services. First up is Deltaphonic, a funky blues band from New Orleans. Check out their song “Liars,” which is their take on the current state of the music industry. Regardless of how you feel about the subject matter, this band has a terrific groove and we could listen to them all day. Can’t wait to hear more.
Continuing in the funky blues vein is Sean Ardoin, with a new video for his Grammy-nominated single “Kick Rocks.” We are truly jamming to his sound and will definitely be listening to this tune on repeat.
We knew it was only a matter of time and now it’s here. Check out indie artist Brian Travis‘ tongue-in-cheek take of life in “The Pandemic Song.” This one is truly food for thought.
Our fourth video is graphic in content but truly hits home with its interpretation of DV and other aspects of life that are “Unfair.” Check out the dynamic sound of Deleo.
Last but not least this week is the latest from multi-Grammy winning artist Dave Yaden. His jazz career is taking off and he shows you why in this video for his latest song, “Herbie,” shot live and all in one take. Fall in love with this master of the black and white keys.