"You Were the Ones I Had to Betray" by Dean Wareham

 

"You Were the Ones I Had to Betray" is one of those special songs that resonates with us from the opening notes. What is it? The warm, jangling guitars, the lyrics, the weathered vocals, and perhaps the overall vibe. Of course we would like it no matter who the artist is, but we were not surprised that it is the work of Dean Wareham. He has thrilled us over the years in Galaxie 500, Luna, Dean and Britta, and his solo work. This song is the first single from his upcoming solo album That's The Price Of Loving Me, which will be released on March 28 via Carpark Records. If this track is where Dean is going, we intend to follow along.

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Prism Shores - Out From Underneath

 

Reaching into their apparently formidable toolbox of pop and rock hooks, templates and incredible inspirations, Montreal's Prism Shores have crafted a terrific 10-song statement for their new LP Out From Underneath. Varied and colorful, the album touches on jangle, pop, crunchy rock and shoegaze and manages to emerge having freshened up every point on their musical compass. There is just enough C86/Creation/Sarah/Ride to remind your subconscious that you love the sound without detracting you from enjoying the discovering of new music. An exhilarating album, Out From Underneath has set the bar high for our 2025 expectations.

Prism Shores are Jack MacKenzie (guitars/bass/vocals/synths), Ben Gross (bass/guitars/vocals/synths), Luke Pound (drums/percussion/drum programming/guitars/vocals), and Finn Dalbeth (guitars/vocals). Out From Underneath is out now via Meritorio Records.

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"Draggin' On" by Pink Chameleons

 

Finland may not be on the radar of most indie pop fans, but it has been on our radar for a couple of decades. Finnish artist produce memorable music in the pop, metal, and experimental spheres. One of our favorites is Pink Chameleons. This is a group that isn't tethered to their past -- having recorded fine pop and punk material in the past, it seems that they are adding psychedelia to the mix on their upcoming LP Harmony. And yes, they are as adept in psychedelia as the are in everything else. Treat your ears to "Draggin' On".

Harmony will be released on January 31 via Soliti Music.

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"New album by The Chills, two songs available

 

One of our highly anticipated upcoming releases is Spring Board: The Early Unrecorded Songs. The album collects 20 early-career, previously unreleased songs by brilliant songwriter Martin Phillipps of The Chills. Martin wanted the songs out in the world and had been working on this album when he unexpectedly died in 2024. With the collaboration of band members, family and friends his vision will be realized on February 28 via Fire Records. Album tracks "Dolphins" and "If This World Is Made For Me".

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"Turning The Knife" by Shrapnel

 

Indie rock goodness arrives at the end of the month via Sedan Crater, the new album by Sydney-based indie rockers Shrapnel. Founded by former Day Ravies' main man Sam Wilkinson, we expect a full voltage display of the rock arts, and we know we will like it. Take it for a test spin with album single "Turning The Knife".

Shrapnel are Sam Wilkinson, Matthew Neville, Ben Schattner, Nick Johnson, and Toby Baldwin. Sedan Crater out January 31 via Tenth Court Records

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"Cats Go Car Watching" by The Laughing Chimes

 

As ably demonstrated by their previous recordings, the The Laughing Chimes can jangle and chime with the best of the indie pop bands. But prepare to be blown away for the Southeast Ohio's expanded sound on their upcoming second LP, Whispers in the Speech Machine. Blending elements of Athens, Paisley Underground and Dunedin in a way that is fresh and memorable. But more on the album when it arrives at the end of the month via Slumberland Records. For now, enjoy the dreamy appetizer: "Cats Go Car Watching".

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