Stop, Rock, & Roll

Welcome to the first Stop, Rock, & Roll of the summer! While it’s been a fairly slow month for local music, there were some winners. Here are five of them!

JIMSOBBINS – Want More

JIMSOBBINS, the new project from Balloon Thief singer/guitarist Adam Howe, recently released a split with another new project, Cindy7. Lead track “Want More” is an immediate earworm, with a catchy keyboard riff snaking its way throughout the pulse-pounding track. The whole affair is a lofi extravaganza that wouldn’t be out of place in Australia, where this type of music reigns supreme in the local scene.

CINDY7 – WALL

The other side of this split features songs by Cindy7, aka Lucy M, who has played for Rhode Island Luminaries such as Gymshorts, Bochek, and Nova One. Each of the four tracks that compose Cindy7’s side of the record explode with intensity, with the longest being just under two minutes. “Wall” is the standout, featuring staccato guitar riffing under classic hardcore shouting. However, the song eventually smooths out and becomes more melodic, featuring some taut lead guitar lines and a chorus of voices celebrating the destruction of the titular walls.

DepopulateMontana – I Always Dream of Dying

DepopulateMontana has been grinding for several years, eventually finding a home in the emo/screamo/skramz scene that has bubbled up in the area. Their latest single, which was originally featured on an LGBTQ+ benefit compilation, begins with dissonant guitar and subdued drumming before exploding into a fireball. The screaming, combined with pounding drums and distorted guitars, makes for an intense listen that any fans of the previously mentioned genres will certainly enjoy. The song takes a fairly unexpected left turn towards the end, changing time signatures and becoming a half-time beatdown complete with deathcore growls.

Aques – Neckbreaker

New England rapper Aques has been steadily dropping music, with singles flowing just as steadily as his bars. His most recent offering, NECKBREAKER, is actually a very mellow listen despite the heavy title. Over a jazzy sample, Aques can be clearly heard, refusing to hide his abilities by mumbling or coating them in effects. Multi-layered rhymes prove that this rapper has continuously improved upon his craft over time. He’s promised new music in the near future, so definitely keep an ear open.

J. Michael Graham – Got No Place to Go

This song by J. Michael Graham, a local singer/songwriter, features chords that would not be out of place in a ’90s power-pop revival song – they immediately stand out. Graham’s voice is crisp and clear, delivering melancholy lyrics while still sounding lively. Additional guitar by Kevin Williams spruces up the track.