Hannah Bowers
Fighty, fun, rebellious, and rowdy, the Los Angeles based alternative pop/rock act acknowledges influence from Avril Lavigne to Alanis Morrisette, and latest single, “Figure It Out,” could be a mashup of the two. Passionate, intricate, and infectious, Hannah Bowers delivers an attitude-filled brand of contemporary alternative that has mass appeal potential.
RAEGAN
NYC-based singer-songwriter RAEGAN is breath of fresh air with a multi-faceted set of talents and a dexterous sonic approach. Her alternative pop soundscape is mesmerizing, dark, and un-skippable, not to mention all self-produced. Her debut EP, FUCK RAEGAN, is daring and ambitious rookie collection, hypnotic and hooky from start to finish.
Nick Karcher
Nick Karcher’s pop-laced and melodically weighted brand of alternative rock/pop-punk is atmospheric and emotive, with the weight of driving rock guitars powering through across the tracks. The vocal delivery retains a warmth and accessibility, even in the angrier and more dismayed moments. His latest single, the soaring ballad “Blame it on The Universe,” was produced by Michael Bono (blink 182, MOD SUN).
Smooth Brain
Tri-state alternative rock/pop-punk crew Smooth Brain are bringing a vivacity to the East Coast scene with their bright aesthetic. Their motto of “queer joy and pure rage, hand in hand” underpins the band’s values. They wear a smile on record and during their live shows. The band ardently champion their local scene, the LGBTQ+ community, and mental health. Their latest single “Derealization” is a candid look at the dissociative disorder.
Second Cities
U.K. outfit Second Cities deliver a loud hybrid of emo and metal, with raw, impactful vocals and resonating instrumentation. “A band for the abandoned, music for outcasts” is how the Birmingham quintet describe themselves. Latest single “Friend of Mine” is a ripper, leaning on dynamic riffs and potent vocal interactions.
Photo courtesy of LA Rodgers
