July, 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
Forest Green
In Waves
Forest Green's new album "In Waves" is set for release on July 3 via No Sleep Records. The band, hailing from Saginaw, Michigan, offers a unique blend of alternative and post-hardcore with raw, intense, and emotion-filled sound. Fans of similar artists in the scene will appreciate their energy and passion showcased in their music and live performances.
Broadway Calls
Sad In The City
Broadway Calls will release their new album "Sad In The City" on July 10 via Red Scare Industries, marking their first album with the label. The album explores themes of societal unrest and personal relationships in a turbulent world, resonating with fans of punk rock bands like The Menzingers and The Lawrence Arms.
DMA's
The Glow
The upcoming album 'THE GLOW' by DMA’S, releasing on April 24, 2020, showcases their evolution towards a grander sonic experience with anthemic hooks. Produced by Stuart Price, known for his work with The Killers and Madonna, this record infuses Screamadelica vibes and modern alt-pop elements, appealing to fans of arena-worthy music.
Kestrels
Dream or Don't Dream
Kestrels from Halifax will be releasing their new album "Dream Or Don't Dream" on July 10, 2020 via Darla Records. The album, produced by John Agnello and mastered by Greg Calbi, offers a mix of shoegaze rock with blazing riffs and soaring hooks, featuring a collaboration with J Mascis of Dinosaur Jr on the single "Grey and Blue."
Modern Color
From The Leaves Of Your Garden
Redondo Beach, California's Modern Color is gearing up to release their LP "From The Leaves Of Your Garden" on July 10th, 2020 through Other People Records. Fans of emo-tinged grunge and melodic post-hardcore should check out the singles "Empty Rooms" and "Out of Reach" for a taste of what's to come.
Secret Stuff
You Should Have Bought More Flowers
Secret Stuff from Nashville, TN is set to release "You Should Have Brought More Flowers," their debut LP on July 17, 2020. Their album delves into themes of navigating a cold, indifferent world and finding solace in loved ones. Fans of midwestern emo/indie rock akin to Free Throw, Better Off, and Pale Lungs will find this upcoming release highly enjoyable.
Spice
Spice
Spice, featuring members of Ceremony and Sabertooth Zombie, will release their self-titled debut LP on July 17th via Dais Records. The album explores emotional depth and affliction through a mix of indie pop and poignant lyricism, drawing influence from Bay Area melodies and modernity. Produced by Sam Pura at Panda Studios in Fremont, California, the record delves into themes of pain, connection, and continuity, creating a cohesive and introspective musical journey.
Strike Anywhere
Nightmares Of The West
Strike Anywhere, punk veterans, have signed with Pure Noise Records for their new EP, Nightmares of the West, set to release on July 17, 2020. The EP features fiery and politically charged songs, reminiscent of their past work, infused with a fresh perspective on current societal issues.
Surfer Blood
Carefree Theatre
Surfer Blood's upcoming album "Carefree Theatre" marks their return to Kanine Records, blending nostalgia with a fresh outlook. The band's journey from their acclaimed debut "Astro Coast" to present showcases resilience and growth, offering a sound akin to Pixies and capturing a decade of musical evolution.
The Lawrence Arms
Skeleton Coast
The Lawrence Arms will release 'Skeleton Coast', their first album in six years, on July 17 via Epitaph Records. The record, recorded at Sonic Ranch Studios, offers a melodic punk sound similar to bands like Alkaline Trio and Hot Water Music, with a focus on themes of searching for light in darkness.
Ways Away
Ways Away
Ways Away is gearing up to release their debut album featuring members from Racquet Club and Stick To Your Guns, with a sound reminiscent of mid/late 90s emo/indie/punk bands like Samiam and Texas is the Reason. Produced by Beau Burchell, this album promises a dynamic and nostalgic musical experience that will surely resonate with fans of the genre.
(Damn) This Desert Air
Nebulosity
(Damn) This Desert Air returns after 7 years with their EP Nebulosity, showcasing an intense sonic boom with melodic elements. The band's fourth release overall features a mix of surging guitars, impactful drums, commanding vocals, and evocative strings, expertly crafted by engineer Chris Badami. Fans of Hum and Failure will find their sound in this EP's blend of tone bending audio and raw emotion.
Neck Deep
All Distortions Are Intentional
Neck Deep's upcoming fourth album, All Distortions Are Intentional, is a conceptually rich release set to drop on July 24, 2020, via Hopeless Records. The album follows the story of a character named Jett in a place called Sonderland, featuring themes of disconnection and existential ponderings, reminiscent of bands like Panic! At The Disco and One Direction. Produced by Matt Squire and mixed by Seb Barlow, the album marks a significant chapter for Neck Deep, drawing on personal experiences and reflecting the band's journey from their native Wales to global success, echoing the introspective journey portrayed in their music.
Shiver.
See The Light
Shiver., an indie/alternative/emo band from Salem, MA, is releasing their debut LP "See The Light" independently on July 24th, 2020. Drawing inspiration from Moving Mountains, Valleyheart, and Copeland, their music features lush soundscapes, emotive vocals, and catchy melodies.
The Psychedelic Furs
Made of Rain
The Psychedelic Furs release their first album in almost 30 years, 'Made Of Rain,' showcasing their distinctive post-punk sound. Produced by Richard Fortus and mixed by Tim Palmer, the album stays true to the band's unique blend of art and aggression. Fans can expect a fresh yet familiar experience from the influential band, reminiscent of their classic sound.