As the machine rolls on, so does the Hotbox! And with that, we are proud to present this week’s choices, with a nice blend of vibes, atmosphere, and sounds to please you all. Enjoy ;)
Tommy’s Picks:
Mogwai – The Bad Fire
Mogwai’s latest album blends atmospheric soundscapes with their trademark crescendos, showcasing their ability to evoke deep emotion through their songwriting and performance.
The Weeknd – Hurry Up Tomorrow
The Weeknd’s new album delivers an enchanting mix of 80s vibes, haunting melodies, and his signature vocals, proving once again why he’s one of the most innovative artists of today.
Sarah Kinsley – Escaper
A relaxing and eloquent escape from the bullshit of the world around us, Sarah Kinsley shows the depth and character of a seasoned artist on this release, her first LP.
Cori’s Picks:
Blow Wind Blow – Jordan Lehning
Melodic folky walking music makes you think of wind grass n summer.
Kisses – Slow Dive
Slow Dive’s new single is a classic rendition of their recognizable sound.
High Fashion – Addison Ray
Full on supporting this cause it’s good. I support Addison ray the rebrand is immaculate.
Varun’s Picks:
Crochet – Cherish
Crochet are a force to be reckoned with in today’s screamo/skramz scene. Their blend of freeform instrumentation and tortured group vocals lends their music a uniquely volatile, apocalyptic feel. Lots of bands in the genre sound explosive in a metaphorical sense, but Crochet are exactly that.
Venturing – Ghostholding
Shoegaze queen Jane Remover returns with her third full-length, this time under her lesser-known alias Venturing. Ghostholding showcases her penchant for dense production, cathartic songwriting and blissful guitar wizardy.
Bella’s Picks:
1991 – Drop Nineteens
Drop Nineteens, popular 90s shoe gaze group during the height of the genre, released a new album this year titled “1991.” This band has been very consistent with their classic sound since releasing music again back in 2023. 1991 is a perfect winter album for wandering around campus amongst the piles of snow that have surrounded us these past few weeks. I’m such a sucker for a quality shoegaze that sticks to its roots of atmospheric guitar melodies and punchy drums and 1991 is no exception.
Cryogeyser – Cryogeyser
I had the pleasure of seeing Cryogeyser tease multiple of these tracks on her new album “Crypogeyser” when I attended Wednesday’s solo tour in December. Her acoustic set was just as good as the completely produced album. The first two tracks off of “Cryogeyser,” Sorry and Stargirl, are such gut punches and create an amazing precedent for the rest for the album. Her voice is so raw and genuine that I can’t help shed a tear. She really strikes a cord with listeners, along with the grungey/shoegaze instrumentals. I highly recommend this record!
Hooky and Winter – Water Season
Hooky and Winter’s collaboration ep “Water Season” is such a twiggy twee delight. The nostalgic melodies remind me of the transition from winter to spring. Winter’s floaty vocals cradle you like a warm blanket in a cold room. “In Your Pocket” takes a bit more of an electric/synthy direction but works seamlessly nonetheless. I hope you all enjoy this little EP as much as I do!
Rhea’s Picks:
Gloom Designs (Single) – Florist
Florist is one of those bands whose songs all kind of sound the same in the best way. Their lyrics always speak exactly to what I’m experiencing in an almost uncanny way — “Gloom Designs” muses on loss, embodiment, the extreme anxiety of living in such uncertain times. And of course, since it’s Florist we’re talking about here, its all said beautifully over a fluid, clear guitar.
Water Season (EP) – Hooky, Winter (Again cos it’s lit)
Wintery art pop — the soundtrack for a snowy walk in North Woods. “I like you” is probably my favorite.
Jabbermouth (Album) – Faerybabyy
Poppy indie nostalgia. Good for jumping on your bed, wearing tulle, putting on strawberry-flavored lipgloss, long car rides with the windows down. Google says “post-punk indie rock” and that tracks. Fun album, although maybe it’s more suited for the summer. Or maybe I’m too gloomy…
Anddddddd here’s the playlist again:
See you guys in two weeks!
Peace, Love, and College Radio,
Tommy