New Releases
AOTW: Personal Trainer – Still Willing
Thursday, August 22nd, 2024 by Liz Kosik
by Liz Kosik ’25
Album of the Week: Personal Trainer – Still Willing
Released: August 2, 2024
Rate: 7.9/10
RIYL: Pip Blom, The Bug Club, Lime Garden
If you’re into pop music that keeps you guessing, Amsterdam’s Personal Trainer has got you covered with their second album. The brainchild of Willem Smit, who teams up with Casper van der Lans in the studio, Personal Trainer has already shown their knack for DIY indie-pop with their 2022 debut, “Big Love Blanket”. Willem is back with “Still Willing,” an album with contrast and energy. It’s a collection of lively melodies, creative arrangements, and playful lyrics, all delivered with a fresh dose of charm and enthusiasm.
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The Encore: Berry the Band
Wednesday, August 21st, 2024 by Liz Kosik
by Liz Kosik ’25
WLOY presents “The Encore,” where we spotlight our favorite artists that have visited the station. This week: Berry the Band!
Berry the Band was formed when guitarist and vocalist Joey Lemon and drummer Paul Goodenough connected at a music program. The duo soon brought in keyboardist Matt Aufrecht, a college friend who shared their passion for creating original sounds. After releasing a few EPs and experiencing slow progress, the group sought to revitalize their sound with the addition of bass player Shane Bordeau, who became a permanent member. Over the years, their music evolved, capturing their experiences on the road and their growth as both musicians and individuals.
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SOTW: Jordana – “Like A Dog”
Tuesday, August 20th, 2024 by Liz Kosik
by Liz Kosik ’25
Song of The Week: Jordana – “Like A Dog”
Released: August 6, 2024
Rate: 8/10
RIYL: Hana Vu, Soccer Mommy, Jay Som
Jordana, the 23-year-old songwriter hailing from Maryland and now based in LA, has released with her latest track, “Like A Dog.” The song is a part of her newest album, “Lively Premonition,” set to drop on October 18 via Grand Jury. Known for constantly evolving her sound, Jordana has never been one to stick to a single genre. From lo-fi vibes to polished pop, gritty indie rock to soft folk, she’s explored it all. I’m sure the new release proves she’s still full of surprises.
With “Like A Dog,” Jordana ventures into fresh territory. The track captures her knack for reinvention, pushing the boundaries of her already diverse discography. If you’re expecting the same old Jordana, think again—she’s always one step ahead, redefining what her music can be. Definitely recommend staying up to date with the artist as she releases more tracks with the album.
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AOTW: Brigitte Calls Me Baby – The Future Is Our Way Out
Thursday, August 15th, 2024 by Liz Kosik
by Liz Kosik ’25
Album of the Week: Brigitte Calls Me Baby – The Future Is Our Way Out
Released: August 2, 2024
Rate: 9/10
RIYL: Cal In Red, The Courettes, The Killers
Chicago’s Brigitte Calls Me Baby is making waves with their debut album, “The Future Is Our Way Out.” This record is a cool mix of classic, smooth mid-century pop and the edgy vibes of early 2000s indie-rock. With Wes Leavins’ crooning vocals leading the way, the band creates a sound that’s both sophisticated and refreshingly raw. Now signed to ATO Records, they’re gearing up for a tour that’s sure to be a blast. The album’s mix of jittery post-punk, driving rhythms, and eerie guitar lines dives deep into themes of mortality, marking a strong start for Brigitte Calls Me Baby’s promising journey.
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AOTW: X – Smoke & Fiction
Thursday, August 8th, 2024 by Liz Kosik
by Liz Kosik ’25
Album of the Week: X – Smoke & Fiction
Released: August 2, 2024
Rate: 7/10
RIYL: The Runaways, Sex Pistols, The Clash, Black Flag
X is an American punk rock band formed in Los Angeles, featuring original members Exene Cervenka (vocals), John Doe (vocals, bass), Billy Zoom (guitar), and D. J. Bonebrake (drums). The band released seven studio albums between 1980 and 1993, went inactive in the mid-to-late 1990s, but reunited in the early 2000s to tour. In June 2024, X announced a final album and farewell tour, featuring their latest work, “Smoke and Fiction.”
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SOTW: Arto Vaun – “Stuck Inside a Map”
Tuesday, August 6th, 2024 by Liz Kosik
by Liz Kosik ’25
Song of The Week: Arto Vaun – “Stuck Inside a Map”
Released: August 1, 2024
Rate: 9/10
RIYL: The Smashing Pumpkins, The Offspring, Counting Crows
Arto Vaun is a Boston-born musician and poet known for his engaging performances and creative background. Previously performing under the name Mishima USA, he has performed with artists like Rufus Wainwright and Daniel Johnston.
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AOTW: Empire of The Sun – Ask That God
Thursday, August 1st, 2024 by Liz Kosik
by Liz Kosik ’25
Song of The Week: Empire of The Sun – Ask That God
Released: June 21, 2024
Rate: 8.5/10
RIYL: Disclosure, Calvin Harris, Kid Cudi, MGMT
Eight years after their last LP, Empire Of The Sun, the iconic Australian electronic duo, is back with their fourth studio album, “Ask That God.” Luke Steele and Nick Littlemore, who have been captivating audiences worldwide with their incredible live performances and catchy hits since 2007, are at the helm once again. Empire Of The Sun has been one of Australia’s most successful musical acts, achieving multi-platinum status globally. Released through Capitol Records, “Ask That God” captures a significant shift in consciousness, a theme deeply woven into their encapsulation of EDM music.
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SOTW: Cal in Red – “Kitchen”
Tuesday, July 30th, 2024 by Liz Kosik
by Liz Kosik ’25
Song of The Week: Cal in Red – “Kitchen”
Released: June 22, 2024
Rate: 8/10
RIYL: The Shins, Tame Impala, Electric Guest
Cal in Red just dropped their new single “Kitchen,” featuring James Mercer, and it’s a taste of their debut album Low Low coming out August 30th. The track premiered on Brooklyn Vegan and holds a special place for brothers Connor and Kendall Wright. Mercer, who first discovered the duo when they were in their old band Mertle, had them win The Shins’ 2017 Van Contest with a cover of “Painting a Hole.”
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AOTW: Fana Hues – Moth
Thursday, July 25th, 2024 by Liz Kosik
by Liz Kosik ’25
Album of the Week: Fana Hues – Moth
Released: June 14, 2024
Rate: 9/10
RIYL: Rihanna, Miguel, Mac Demarco, Tyler, The Creator
Fana Hues, born on June 15, 1995, is an American R&B artist hailing from Pasadena, California. Coming from a musically inclined family, she faced a tough childhood challenge when scarlet fever, tonsillitis, and strep throat left her unable to sing for five years. Thanks to her family’s support and her relentless practice, she eventually found her voice again. Her big break came in 2021 when she featured on Tyler, the Creator’s Grammy-winning album “Call Me If You Get Lost,” which landed her on The Guardian’s “One to Watch” list in 2022.
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SOTW: The Courettes – “California”
Tuesday, July 23rd, 2024 by Liz Kosik
by Liz Kosik ’25
Song of The Week: The Courettes – “California”
Released: June 4, 2024
Rate: 7/5/10
RIYL: Miranda and the Beat, The Woggles, Kate Clover
The Courettes, a dynamic rock duo from Denmark, blend vintage garage rock and modern punk influences to create a unique sound. Formed by Brazilian singer-guitarist Flavia Couri and Danish drummer Martin Couri, the band is known for their powerful performances and retro-inspired tunes. With a knack for delivering energy and grit, The Courettes have garnered a dedicated fanbase across Europe and beyond, including our very own WLOY station. The duo dropped by WLOY in September 2023 to promote their original vinyl release, “Boom! Dynamite.” We were able to chat with the pair about their upcoming plans, such as some performances in the Baltimore and DC area. Now, they’re out with their newest single, “California.”
The Courettes have cultivated such an original sound, creating a distinct and recognizable style. Their retro-inspired theme distinguishes them from contemporary artists, adding a unique personality that truly makes them stand out. “California” follows a similar production and resonates with their style, however, does not hide or get lost in their more recognizable tracks. “California” stands on its own and adds aura to their discography. Definitely check it out!
Find The Courettes 2023 WLOY interview here! Also, don’t miss the duo’s U.S. return this August at Metro Baltimore. Follow for more details here!
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