Royal Headache: "Down The Lane"

[mp3] Royal Headache: "Down the Lane"

We give Altered Zones a lot of shit - but for every 8 posts on bands you will never hear from again, or care to, there is one really solid act that makes it worth reading. We discovered Gem Club there, as well as Shimmering Stars. Add Sydney's Royal Headache to that list. Royal Headache's song "Down The Lane" (from their forthcoming S/T Sept release) may not just be the best song we've heard on Altered Zones, but maybe the best song we've heard all summer. It's a REAL song. It has a hook, and a melody, structure - holy shit - you'd think it was the second coming "Brown Sugar." Well, that it's not, but it IS just a great pop-punk tune that's refreshing as hell. They'll be in the US around release in Sept. Their album was produced by Mikey Young of Eddy Current Suppression Ring and Straight Arrows' Owen Penglis. Very much looking forward to hearing it all.

Shimmering Stars sign to Hardly Art

[mp3] Shimmering Stars: "I'm Gonna Try"

Shimmering Stars were one of those bands we posted on (wow, that video was from October?), and thought we may never hear from again. That happens a LOT, and it's always a little disheartening to see bands with promise just not being able to make it work. Yet, our spirits lifted a bit yesterday when we saw that the Vancouver band signed to Hardly Art for the release of their forthcoming debut LP Violent Hearts due Sept 13. Their lead single "I'm Gonna Try" has that nostalgic back-beat driven melody that many out there these days try and emulate, but rarely nail down. While we're not sure what the rest of the album sounds like, we're lucky to have this slice of throwback pop that stands out from the hordes of like-minded bands, who, fortunately or unfortunately may never have a real shot of making it. Also, go Canucks! (Game seven tonight).

Shimmering Stars

[mp3] Shimmering Stars: "I'm Gonna Try"

We came across this video yesterday over at Altered Zones, and found the song oddly compelling. Shimmering Stars are able to craft memorable melodies, while employing a subtle reverb and tasteful production. Dude ends up chasing down his ex (?) on a bike, and we're left wondering "her?" To each his own I guess. Shimmering Stars have a 7"coming on Almost Musique.

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