Here at Radio 1190, the school year is ramping up and we have a plethora of new volunteers and DJs getting involved. Our recent favorites around the station include “I Hate Myself” by P.H.F., “Render Another Ugly Method” by Mothers, “monocloud” by Nestoria and “Roadkill” by Capital Punishment.
P.H.F. (f.k.a. Perfect Hair Forever) is the project of Auckland producer Joe Locke. Best known for their 2016 single “Queen” featuring prominent bedroom pop artist Clairo. Their latest release is an eleven-track achievement in lo-fi rock. These songs are pop-rock at their core, but the distorted guitar and bedroom production feel give them DIY sensibilities that strongly appeal to 1190 DJs and listeners alike. I’ve caught myself humming the melodies to myself more times than I’d like to admit. “I Hate Myself” will without a doubt be revisited when I look back at my favorite albums of 2018.
Originally formed as the solo project of Kristine Leschper while studying in Athens, Georgia, Mothers, now located in Philadelphia, has become an indie favorite since their freshman release in 2016. Their latest album “Render Another Ugly Method” brings an innovative experimental rock twinge to the folksy indie sound that they became known for. What many have begun to consider the “Philly” sound (twangy guitars, atypical time signatures, and a generally off kilter feel) has come to the forefront of their music, but the indie folk charm hasn’t been lost. Mothers is starting their U.S. tour next week and will be in Denver October 21st at the Larimer Lounge.
“monocloud” from Seattle rock group Nestoria is a sprawling thirty-two-minute shoegaze/post rock journey. Atmospheric guitar and minimal vocals define this album that ebbs and flows like a stream. Although many tracks are long, they develop at a great pace and never come across as repetitive. “monocloud” is a blissful soundtrack for doing homework, relaxing outside, or taking a nap.
Last, but certainly not least, is an album that’s backstory is just as interesting as the music itself. Capital Punishment, formed in 1979, was a high school band from New York City. They never went on to be famous for their music, a few of the members have gained notoriety in other ways. Their lineup included Supreme Court Justice for Arizona Peter Swann and successful actor Ben Stiller. “Roadkill,” Capital Punishment’s only release, is not what most would expect when they hear “high school band.” The experimental rock album is sophisticated, innovative, and, most of all, just flat out weird. Full of samples, haunting talk/sing vocals, funky bass lines and unhinged guitar, “Roadkill” certainly isn’t for everyone, but those who appreciate late 70s/early 80s industrial music will certainly find something to love.
By Max Askari