First Day Back – Forward
First Day Back is an emo band from Santa Cruz that burst on to the scene with their debut album ‘Foward.’ Self-classified as ‘Singmo,’ the lead vocalist Maggie delivers on this bold description. Their impressive vocal register accompanied with meleancholic lyrics of hearbreak and struggle really stands out as a unique voice in modern day emo. In fact, the band is a reinvention of that classic 2nd wave sound in some regards. The beautiful violin arrangements that suddenly erupt in your face from the entry of an energetic guitar riff is truly something to behold. One of my favorite releases of the year and I recommend every lover of emo music to check it out. – Caiden
Machine Girl – Machine Girl – PsychoWarrior- MG Ultra X
Absolutely insane metal/hyperpop album. Distinct Machine Girl with catchy hooks & vocals (and lots of profanity). It feels like you’re moving 300 miles per hour, and I’m here for it. Probably not the best music for studying. – Michael
Sea Lemon – Diving for a Prize
SO good- love this album and this bubbly dream-pop sound. Sea lemons are one of my favorite animals as well which dramatically helped my opinion on this album. – Rebecca
bloodsports – Anything Can Be a Hammer
This album builds dissonant tension with each track, embodying the term “noise rock” with clashing instrumentals that come together for brief moments of clarity. – Adelaide
Water From Your Eyes – It’s a Beautiful Place
This feels like a concept album and has a really unique sound. It’s almost like a more down-to-earth shoegaze. I’d highly recommend listening cover to cover. However, a lot of the songs don’t exactly do it for me on their own; they work a lot better within the album as a whole. – Michael
Hayden Pedigo – I’ll Be Waving as You Drive Away
A masterpiece of guitar, I’ll Be Waving as You Drive Away is reflective, contemplative, serene, and simply beautiful. This album is a great companion for a quiet afternoon walk in autumn. – Corey
Written by our lovely lovely mixtape team volunteers!!