Essential Forever’s Al Heaney recently packed up his turtlenecks and Peter Asher glasses and made the big move from the mellow Midwest to the lights of Los Angeles, where the former film student turned crooner just surprise-debuted a new single sparkling with Hollyweird dramatics. Released on Bandcamp “in the wee small hours of the morning” (to quote another beloved crooner), “Knew It Was the First Time” rotates in a candy-colored Roy Orbison orbit through a Milky Way of tape distortion, haunted by the specter of Phil Spector. Heaney croons about the power of love and crunches numbers like a possessed ’60s accountant in what he so poetically calls “the arithmetic…
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The Akashic Field Is a Mystical Heavy Psych Folk Trance From Lamp Of The Universe
Lamp Of The Universe has mixed heavy psych and acid folk together for a unique sound that transports the listener into another state of consciousness.
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Stewing on and Swooning Over John Myrtle’s “Myrtle Soup”
2021 may finally, blissfully be in the rearview, but there were a few delectable albums whose sizzle we missed amidst the pandemic madness that deserve a spot amongst your 2022 spins, and cheeky Brit John Myrtle’s Myrtle Soup (with vinyl album release set for January 28) is this chef’s choice of the day. John Myrtle crafts songs that simmer with the earnestness and innocence of the early Fab Four but delivers them straight from his London bedroom (or kitchen?) with a knowing modern wink at the sheer absurdity of bursting into song about matters of the heart. On songs like “How Can You Tell If You Love Her” he tackles…
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Mystery Flavors Are San Francisco Folk Rock
Mystery Flavors The Mystery Flavors self titled album released on January 7th 2022. The band is from San Francisco making original music that draws from the rich musical traditions of the city. Their lighthearted music draws inspiration from The Grateful Dead and The Byrds with beautiful harmonies and earthy folk stylings. This is their first full-length album with a collection of songs packed with dreamy harmonies, smooth production and a variety of instruments. Their enchanting style is more than just a revival of the classic west coast folk rock and sunshine pop sound; it also integrates modern folk. The album is dedicated to the Northern California coastal lifestyle with titles…
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Acid Test Presents: Dakila, BOLERO! & Tabernacle with The Mad Alchemy Liquid Light Show
Saturday, January 8th 2022 Acid Test Presents: Dakila, BOLERO! & Tabernacle, located at the Rickshaw Stop amongst modern sheik high rise apartments, theaters, and the gold plated San Francisco City Hall. The Rickshaw Stop is decorated with a dark wild octopus mural in stark contrast to the upscale surroundings. Stepping inside the misfit venue it was clear this night was dedicated to classic psychedelic San Francisco arts, music and culture. The venue’s walls, ceiling, and floor were animated with stunning live liquid light, vividly coating the space. The live light show was by none other than The Mad Alchemy Liquid Light Show led by Lance Gordon, who created light shows…
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Balduin She’s The One
Balduin’s music has creative freedom on each note and feels open and uplifting. The album is very positive and playful, bringing to mind the optimism of the 60s 'Summer Of Love'. The album feels like it came from the start of the psychedelic genre while incorporating contemporary influences.
