Forts – Roman Circus
Release Date: 8th December 2023
Rock and metal is more than ever before blurring the lines between genres, subgenres and anything else for that matter. Forts are taking that ethos and running with it, bringing not only a variety of genres through to the fore in their tracks but changing them up so often it will have you checking if it’s still the same song.
‘Roman Circus’ is the first track from the band in 2023 and showcases all of the above. Moody, dream-like, dark-pop transitions into harsh, industrial nu-metal-esque choruses and back out again through breakdowns and trails off as if nothing even happened. 2023 may be drawing to an end but it certainly feels like 2024 is going to be a huge one for this American trio.
Social Links: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Bandcamp
Groundstate – Perfect Timing
Release Date: 11th August 2023
The world has a strange relationship with American rock. In the UK alone bands that are rock gods across the pond sometimes don’t hit the same heights here and then there are a few bands that explode here but not in the US. What does matter though is bands not just copying the same tired formula over and over.
American hard rock three-piece Groundstate dropped their new hard rock through and through album, The Things We Leave Unsaid, back in August and with it the single ‘Perfect Timing’. With a chugging intro, big old singalong choruses and a core that feels heartfelt and meaningful, the track has memorable drumming and a will be a song you can pop on at any time and have a lovely little time listening to.
Social Links: Facebook | Spotify | Instagram
Inkakai – Drown
Release Date: 31st October 2023
Los Angeles based alt-rockers Inkakai returned with a new track, their first of the year, blending some classic rock and a few punkier elements in there too. Whilst if you check their Spotify it looks like the band have been around for a few years but only released a trio of tracks, dig a bit deeper and you’ll find a rich history spreading across a couple of decades that has given them worldwide acclaim. About time everyone got on that bandwagon.
Heavily based in that alt-rock space, it’s the vocals that truly set the track apart. The band have been featured in films in the past and this one feels like the soundtrack to a hero’s journey almost immediately. Soaring through the four-minute run time, the song is uplifting and implores you singalong.
Social Links: Website | TikTok | Facebook | Instagram | Bandcamp
Decrepit Youths – Sleep Torn
Release Date: 8th December 2023
Dual-fronted alt-rock with a footing in modern electronic styles seem to be en vogue right now and Newcastle, England-based five-piece Decrepit Youths are not so much jumping on that bandwagon as they’re trying to lead it. ‘Sleep Torn’ sees the final of three songs released in 2023 come to life and has seen the band gouge out a segment of the market that 2024 will see grow and grow if what has been released so far is anything to go by.
With a pair of vocalists up front the main focus will inevitably head towards the harmonies, and rightfully so. Beautifully enhancing what would otherwise still be strong choruses and each singer’s individual lines coming so fast no time is wasted on the track. This backed by electronic elements that lift the listener out of their chair make the track a euphoric experience. Keep an eye out for this band. They could be going to some big places!
Social Links: Instagram | Linktree
Give all of the tracks above and much more a listen across a few of our playlists. Give me a save while you’re there too: