[Matador; 2025]
Horsegirl’s opening track “Where’d You Go?” introduces listeners to the world of their sophomore album, Phonetics On and On. “Where’d You Go” is simple with a straight guitar riff and repetition of the title; however, the layering vocals and percussion gives it an almost clunky, jumbled flair. The song could seamlessly fit on The Breeder’s Last Splash. In fact, for only being released in February of this year, Phonetics On and On is a modern take on the jangle pop genre of the ‘90s, combining the guitar tones of the ‘60s with the edge of indie rock. The guitar solo outro really sells the song and adds to the messy, unpredictable fun such a simple song could have. “Where’d You Go?” is simply sweet, nostalgic and a little jangly.
- Kourtney Gierke, Copy Editor
Read more: What We’re Listening To – October Rotation
bassvictim – “27a Pitfield St”
[VOTB; 2025]
“27a Pitfield St” is the second track on bassvictim’s Oct. 10 album release titled Forever. Often described as fitting under the indie sleaze umbrella that has slowly been seeing a comeback, “Forever” is a mix of nostalgic electronica and melancholy interludes. “27a Pitfield St” is a perfect gateway into the album, as it showcases the evocative songwriting of Maria, the vocalist of the duo, mixed with bassvictim’s signature electropop/electroclash sound curated by both Maria and producer, Ike. In the song, the lyrics allude to a night out with friends, with Maria stating in an article by Pitchfork that the song is dedicated to a house set to be demolished in Shoreditch that the duo spent time conceptualizing and mixing their album “Basspunk.” I absolutely recommend giving the entire album Forever a listen and keeping an eye out for what this revolutionary duo has in store!
- Anika Arcikauskas, Contributor
[Winspear; 2025]
Teethe is a Texas-based slowcore band with a focus on bringing the otherworldly to listeners. “Magic of The Sale” is a prophecy disguised as a dream. What slowness lies in its instrumentals is made up for by the intense lyrical content. Lead singer Boone Patrello sings, “Set myself to sleep for good / Reach out for you,” with the undertones of a dream gone bad, set to mystical and dragging guitar riffs. This track is the namesake of their second album, which was released in August of this year. What makes “Magic of The Sale” special to me is the orchestral-style fade out, utilizing what sounds to be a violin. The ambient closing emphasizes the creepy, magical element of the song, placing you in an enchanted kingdom far away from Earth’s gravitational pull.
- Jenell Taylor, Columns and Features Editor
Glaive – “We Don’t Leave the House”
[BROKE; 2025]
The music machine, Glaive, is back and better than ever. In September, Glaive released his third studio album, Y’all, and it’s safe to say this album went above and beyond. The seventh track on the album, “We Don’t Leave the House,” brings to life Glaive and all of his pseudonyms, of which he also releases music. The synth in the beginning of this track is reminiscent of his work as Ovine Hall throughout the years. Much like his other work, this track is incredibly vulnerable, explaining his introversion and thirst to stay sober even as a growing artist. Ironically, he’s saying all of this over a track that could be played at a club. The song is incredibly catchy and danceable, much like the rest of the album. Welcome back, Glaive!
- Eileen Fortner, News Editor
[Independent; 2025]
Earlier this fall, the electronic duo Ear’s simple, subtle and dynamic electro-pop sound began to gain traction among indie circles. Amidst the internet buzz, a Toronto show opening for Yung Lean and a debut album, co-frontman Jonah Paz quietly released his own record Exit. The short 10-song collection, recorded almost entirely on Paz’s phone, is a tour-de-force of twee mentalities. The album’s opener “Open Wide” is a true standout and one of the catchiest pop songs released this year. The track begins with simple and sweet guitar and synth, but soon Paz’s obsession with endless and consistent experimentation transforms the song into something entirely unique. The guitars and synths sweep in and out, drums stumble over each other, the instruments conversate, argue, morph and transform, but the song never loses its excitement. The song, as well as the whole album, is an exciting look into a blossoming career.
- Trent Liptak, Contributor
[Third Man; 2025]
Rock band Die Spitz has been one of the most captivating acts climbing the ranks in the last couple of years. The all-female group emerging out of Texas is a blend of hardcore, punk and grunge. Their latest album, Something to Consume, has been described as sludge metal, with a blend of distorted riffs and dreamy vocals that precede gritty and powerful screams. “American Porn” stands out as easily the most raw, raunchy and depressing track on the record – the chorus feels cathartic and messy in a way that resonates deeply with listeners: “Stay right here, come with me / Show and perform / Shut your mouth, show your face / American porn.” If you’re an avid fan of Courtney Love’s distinctive and jagged vocal stylings in Hole, then this track in particular is for you; it’s reminiscent of that unbeatable, classic 90s grunge sound.
- Sage Spirk, Contributor
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