This is an occasional series where I share a few things that I’m enjoying that I’ve discovered through the magic that is Twitter.
DM-KD is a collaboration between two musicians out of Munich, Germany. Before getting together, Marco Seibt had a project by the name of domestic-music and Katka Spychala worked under the name Kata Dumur. Combining their talents AND their band names (hint – look at the initials), they have two great, somewhat dark, electronic tracks posted on their website. Fans of earlier 4AD bands like, say, Clan of Xymox should definitely check this out. Their site also mentions some involvement with Boris Blank, so we’ll put that in the “plus” column; any friend of Yello is a friend of mine.
Royale is a four piece band from Boston. Their Twitter feed says they are “Post gypsy chamber rock revival” which is a great description of…something, but probably not their music. Their music tends toward clean sounding bass-guitar-drum indie rock. Their “Long Gone” EP is a great way to sample them. From the catchy opener “Take A Minute” to the more dramatic title track to the sparse late-night vibe of closer “Can’t Seem To Leave” you can pick out lots of influences (Kings of Leon and Death Cab For Cutie to name only two) but nothing that pigeonholes them as a “sounds just like” band. And if you like their songs, they also have other fun stuff available on their Soundcloud page, including some cover songs of well-known artists (Etta James, The Strokes) and even some Christmas songs. Ho ho ho.
Calling All Astronauts round out today’s selections. They are self-described as an “Electro Goth Punk three-piece.” They may favor a punk look, but from what I’ve listened to I’d say the music leans toward the first two descriptors (and throw in “Industrial” for good measure). The music is loud and driving. If it’s not clear, that’s a good thing.
They mention their sound has been compared to Nine Inch Nails, Killing Joke and Marilyn Manson, but I’ll add another one; when the guitar and vocals kick in on their most recent song “It Could Have Been Lust” (currently free to download) I was reminded of Sisters of Mercy. When you visit, also look for “Red Flag” on their Soundcloud page. It will get your blood pumping for sure.