Austin Music We’re Loving February 2022
by Taylor Wallace-Riegel
Half Dream – “Too Much“
A siren’s haunting wail is nothing compared to the voice of Half Dream’s Paige Berry. Her vocals float as effortlessly as they grip. Produced by Elijah Ford (Gary Clark Jr., Ryan Bingham), the group’s latest single is a loud departure from the folk-leaning elegance of 2020’s Monster of Needing. Guitar hooks layer around a song full of gorgeous harmonies reminiscent of Angel Olsen on this welcome change of pace.
Chief Cleopatra – “Afrodite”
On the new Luna EP from our February Artist of the Month, the varied songs remain consistently excellent. Her creative toolbox is deep and robust. “Afrodite” sounds like a polished Sade track that got a little bit of dust on it, a texture that takes the song to a higher level. The understated guitar grooves slow burn, allowing the layers of her voice to take center stage. Hearkening back to R&B ballads of the 90’s, the song still feels modern. Luna is out March 4th on Park the Van Records.
Good Looks – “Vision Board”
Move over Ron Gallo and Kurt Vile, there’s a newcomer to Americana Town (cue a single, rolling tumbleweed). The group’s 2nd single, recently featured as our Song of the Day, finds the band navigating the music industry and coming to terms with elements out of their control. Thick with bright chords and plenty of guitar noodling, the rocker creates a sunny summer mood perfect for getting through the grayest winter days. Bummer Year is out April 8th on Keeled Scales.
Urban Heat – “Simple Love Song” (Live In Studio 1A)
Step into the Urban Heat time machine and you may find yourself wearing leg warmers at the mall. Using a fleet of analog synths and mixers, the band puts a modern perspective on a vintage sound. You may actually think you’re listening to Depeche Mode. In Studio 1A, the trio unleashed a whole can of earworms ready to nest deep inside your psyche.
