December, 2020 Music Releases
A curated month-by-month archive of new and underground music releases across shoegaze, emo, punk, hardcore, indie, and adjacent scenes.
The Month
Clearbody
One More Day
Clearbody, hailing from Charlotte, North Carolina, merges shoegaze with emo-rock on their debut LP "One More Day" coming out on December 4th, 2020 via Smartpunk Records. Drawing influence from bands like Hum and Sunny Day Real Estate, their sound blends elements of indie-rock, post-hardcore, and emo-punk, resonating with fans of Title Fight, Basement, and Nothing. Expect loud, melodic tracks that capture both melancholy and anthemic vibes.
Gentlemen Rogues
Do The Resurrection!
Gentlemen Rogues, an Austin-based Indie Rock band, will be releasing their new single "Do the Resurrection!" on 7" vinyl via Snappy Little Numbers. The single features a power-pop sound with a dueling guitar solo, reminiscent of bands like White Reaper. The B-side, "Bloody Rudderless (in Ursa Major)," offers a unique blend of 90's indie-rock covers, showcasing the band's distinctive and intoxicating sound.
Goldfinger
Never Look Back
Goldfinger's upcoming album 'Never Look Back' is set for release on December 4, 2020 via Big Noise, reintroducing original guitarist Charlie Paulson alongside the core band members. With the recent release of their single “Wallflower”, Goldfinger continues their legacy as pioneers of ska and pop-punk, known for their socially conscious stance on issues like animal rights.
Joan of Arc
Tim Melina Theo Bobby
Joan of Arc, after a long career, has announced their final album, Tim Melina Theo Bobby, slated for release on December 4th, 2020 via Joyful Noise Recordings. The lead single “Destiny Revision” captures a personal reflection amidst contemporary upheaval and is accompanied by a video featuring snapshots from global tours. The album's evolution showcases a diverse range of musicianship, hinting at future projects from band members, such as Good Fuck and Aitis Band. Writer Hanif Abdurraqib praises the group's musical maturity and hints at promising ventures beyond this farewell release.
Overgrow
Hear Your Voice Again
Ohio's Overgrow, fronted by Jake Ciccotelli, is set to release the EP "Hear Your Voice Again" via Common Ground Collective on December 4, 2020. With dreamy atmospheric emo rock akin to Valleyheart and Moving Mountains, fans of this genre shouldn't miss out on their upcoming singles "Hang Over Me" and "Broken Things".
Red City Radio
Paradise
Red City Radio's fourth full-length album "Paradise" is set to be released on December 4, 2020 via Pure Noise Records. The album, produced by Mike Kennerty of The All-American Rejects, features a mix of introspective lyrics and uplifting melodies reminiscent of bands like Thin Lizzy and Fest-style punk. With a focus on finding personal truth and resilience, the 12 songs on "Paradise" reflect a blend of hope and defiance in the face of life's challenges. This release marks the band's evolution with new bassist Derik Envy, maintaining their raw emotional energy while showcasing growth and musical expansion.
Less Than Jake
Silver Linings
Less Than Jake, a veteran ska punk band with an extensive career and notable collaborations, has recently released their first new song in 3 years, "Lie To Me," ahead of their upcoming album Silver Linings set to release on December 11th via Pure Noise Records. The album promises the band's signature energetic sound with a fresh twist, featuring new drummer Matt Yonker and a focus on vocal hooks and vibrant horns. Fans can expect a punchier and more vibrant approach while still embodying the classic Less Than Jake essence.