June, 2021 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
Superbloom
Pollen
Superbloom, hailing from Brooklyn, New York, is gearing up for the release of their debut LP "Pollen" on June 1st, 2021. Their first single "Mary On A Chain" showcases a blend of melodic grunge and alt-pop reminiscent of 90s bands, drawing similarities to Basement, Teenage Wrist, and Superheaven. Fans of nostalgic 90s sounds are in for a treat with Superbloom's upcoming album.
Latewaves
Hell To Pay
Latewaves is a New Jersey-based band formed in 2016 with a sound that mixes cathartic energy with introspective themes of depression and anxiety. Their debut full-length album, "Hell to Pay," produced by Brett Romnes and featuring Vinnie Caruana, showcases explosive riffs and raw, authentic lyrics, making them a must-listen for fans of Free Throw, Heart Attack Man, and Hot Mulligan.
Rise Against
Nowhere Generation
Rise Against's new album, Nowhere Generation, confronts issues of social and economic inequality with blazing punk rock energy. The album features politically charged lyrics inspired by the band's community of fans and young children. Fans of bands like Bad Religion and Minor Threat will appreciate Rise Against's call to action and impactful message.
Talk Show Host
Mid Century Modern
Talk Show Host, a Toronto power-pop punk trio, is set to release their debut full-length album 'Mid-Century Modern' in June. Lead single "Blood In The Sand" showcases their anthemic sing-along style similar to bands like Anti-Flag. The album, produced by John Dinsmore, is a culmination of the band's evolution and honed songwriting skills.
Totally Slow
Casual Drag
Totally Slow from Greensboro, North Carolina, brings forth their third album, Casual Drag, showcasing intense melodic hardcore anthems influenced by 1980s SoCal punk bands like The Adolescents and Agent Orange, as well as '90s San Diego bands Drive Like Jehu. Their fierce lyrics reflect the turbulent political climate, reminiscent of classic DC hardcore acts like Dag Nasty.
Dead History
Dead History
Dead History is a Minneapolis-based emo/post-hardcore quintet with a debut album set for release on June 11th via Landland Colportage. Influenced by bands like Quicksand, Hum, Jawbox, and more, the members have deep roots in the Midwest DIY music scene, evolving from their formative years in smaller towns to becoming fixtures in the Twin Cities music scene.
Jim Ward
Daggers
Jim Ward will release his new album, Daggers, on June 11 through Dine Alone Records. Known for his work with At The Drive-In and Sparta, as well as Sleepercar, Ward's latest offering reflects his personal journey through challenging times in 2020. Although crafted as a solo project during the pandemic, Ward tapped into the talents of Ben Kenney from Incubus and Tucker Rule from Thursday to bring his guitar riffs to life. The lead single, “Paper Fish,” showcases his introspective lyricism and determination to evolve, making Daggers a poignant and hopeful addition to his discography.
Neckscars
Don't Panic
Neckscars, a new band from Downstate New York, are set to release their debut album "Don't Panic" on June 18th. Their music is a blend of rock and anthemic melodic punk, reminiscent of Hot Water Music and Small Brown Bike, with a gravelly vocal style. Recorded in 2020 with 10 fiery tracks, the album is being released by Sell the Heart Records (US) and Engineer Records (UK).
Amusement Parks On Fire
An Archaea
Amusement Parks On Fire, hailing from Nottingham, UK, are set to release their long-awaited album "An Archaea" on June 25, 2021, marking their return after a decade. Known for their melodic alt-rock with dream pop/shoegaze elements, their sound resonates with fans of My Vitriol, Catherine Wheel, Dinosaur Jr, and more. With a history of delivering masterful music, this upcoming LP is highly anticipated and promises to be a summer favorite for listeners seeking layered guitars, feedback, and memorable melodies.
Drug Church
Tawny
Drug Church's new EP "Tawny" bridges the gap between their 2018 LP "Cheer" and their upcoming fourth full-length release, showcasing explosive tracks like "Head-Off" and "Tawny" that blend melodic moments with raw energy. Fans of heavy and catchy music will find Drug Church's dynamic songwriting and sardonic vocals reminiscent of bands like Arcwelder, with a refreshing twist on punk rock aggression.
Free Throw
Piecing It Together
Nashville’s Free Throw will release their new album "Piecing It Together" on June 25th. The album, produced by Will Yip, explores personal insecurities and growth, with a sound reminiscent of artists like Bartees Strange and The Menzingers.
Hurry
Fake Ideas
Hurry's upcoming fourth album, Fake Ideas, blends timeless guitar pop with honest observations about managing anxiety. The first single, "It's Dangerous," showcases the band's jangly guitars and catchy choruses reminiscent of classic power pop. Aiming to comfort listeners in uncertain times, the album merges personal experiences with universal themes through impeccable songcraft.
Massage
Still Life
Massage (ex-Pains of Being Pure at Heart) delivers a nostalgic and romantic vibe inspired by late '80s music on their upcoming Still Life LP, out on June 25, 2021. Drawing influences from bands like The La's, The Field Mice, and The Cure, this indie pop record captures a blend of sunny melodies and bittersweet emotions that resonate with listeners. With a touch of jangle pop and power pop, Massage crafts a gentle sound that effortlessly evokes feelings of love, heartbreak, and nostalgia. Still Life is a collection of 12 beautifully crafted songs that transport you to a dreamy, late-summer landscape, reminiscent of a bygone era in indie music.
Sky Is Alright
Sky is Alright
Sky is Alright is releasing their self-titled debut LP on June 25th, 2021 through Somewhere Cold Records. Influenced by 90s shoegaze and alternative rock bands like Smashing Pumpkins and Slowdive, their music features dreamy melodies, fuzzy guitars, and a mix of quiet and loud dynamics. Check out their single "Mistress Pessimist" for a taste of what's to come, and listen to the album on all digital platforms upon its release.