The below (and lots of others) all feature on my March 2022 playlist
Serotones - Nothing's What It Seems This is a beautifully paced, and exquisitely produced track from the York-based band. The song is underpinned by rock solid beats, and features outstanding vocals which have a yearning quality without straying into that unfortunate whininess which can define some indie bands.
One of the most delicious elements to me is the switch of timing from 4/4 to 2/2 for the chorus, and then back again. It's a great approach, more subtle than a simple speed change, and it gives a great sense of acceleration while somehow retaining that lovely languid feel which pervades the whole track. That carefully judged adjustment also happens with the breakdown and extra guitar noodling which comes in during the last minute or so of the track, merging into an extended outro and then - yes, joy! - a fade out.
The band have plenty of live dates coming up over the next few months, starting with a support slot for Shed Seven at Nottingham Rock City on 26th March. Their website has all the info. I also recommend the Songbird's review of this track.
Arcade State - Even In The Dark Days You Draw A Smile These Glasgow-based rock stars don't seem to be able to put a foot wrong. Having already released a superb single in 2022 ('Splinter'), this week they're back with another certified banger of a track. It opens with a brief drum fill, launching you straight into the journey: soaring, emotive vocals (sounding stronger than ever); sweeping melodic guitars; an uplifting story.
Since discovering this song a few hours ago, I've listened to it several times, and am becoming convinced that it's one of the best of the year so far. This is one I'll keep putting on repeat for sure.
And it has a brilliantly long name, too. An all-round winner.
Thom Yorke - 5.17 Oh Thom. What can I say about a release from someone of this renown; one of my all-time musical heroes? This is an undeniably Thom Yorke kind of song. It's a bit unfathomable, forcefully poignant, evocative ... It's angular and irregular, with Thom's vocals buried in a sort of soup of slightly disturbing noise. And yet I welcome the disturbance, and embrace it.
Where did this come from? Why? Where is it going? These are questions I know may never be answered.
Blue Violet - Rabbit Hole The first piano note of this song tells you so much about what's coming next: you somehow know it's going to be an emotional ride. 'Rabbit Hole' is an exceptionally well written ballad - an absolute classic - based around a beautiful piano-chord progression with rhythmically strummed guitar, and overlaid with a spot-on melody. The main vocals from Sarah Gotley are gorgeous - she has a great touch, quite straightforward but displaying a really skilled balance, too. The harmonies provide a firm base, present but never overbearing.
Since discovering this song a few hours ago, I've listened to it several times, and am becoming convinced that it's one of the best of the year so far. This is one I'll keep putting on repeat for sure.