This week, WTSR Assistant Music Director Nelson Kelly highlights some of the best new albums that the College’s own radio station, 91.3 FM WTSR, puts into its weekly rotation.
Band Name: Marco With Love
Album Name: “Smothered and Covered”
Hailing From: Brooklyn, N.Y.
Genre: Modern Rock
Label: Outright Rock Records
When you see a band that describes its genre as “cosmic, American country-fried boogie-woogie rock ‘n’ roll,” you know you’re in for a real treat. Marco With Love is the solo project of musician Marco Argiro, who has quickly made a name for himself since starting the band in 2013. This album looks both to the future and the past, as the first six songs are original, upbeat,
twangy rock anthems that make you reminisce about the classic rock you weren’t alive to see in its heyday, while making you appreciate the modern twist it takes. The second half of the album looks back on some deep classic rock cuts, including covers of The Doors, Tom Petty, the Dave Clark Five and Townes Van Zandt. “Smothered and Covered” is now more than just a delicious recipe for ribs and wings — indeed, it is a solid effort to capture the sound of the ’60s and ’70s and modernize it, and the album does a pretty good job.
Must Hear: “The Promised Land (See You Dance),” “Tidal Wave,” “Big Black Dog,” “Love” and “Crystal Ship”
Band Name: Into It. Over It.
Album Name: “Standards”
Hailing From: Chicago, Ill.
Genre: Emo Indie Rock
Label: Triple Crown Records
“Standards” is the third full-length album from Into It. Over It., the one-man project of Chicago musician Evan Thomas. “Standards” is a combination of emo-inspired acoustic jams and full-bodied energetic arrangements. Drawing inspiration from the band Sunny Day Real Estate, this album is sonically spontaneous with a massive dynamic range that will keep you listening throughout. Thomas manages to pull off both acoustic and full-band songs flawlessly and the dynamic between the two works quite nicely. For acoustic sadness, check out “Open Casket” or “Your Lasting Image.” The songs “Closing Argument,” “No EQ” and “Vis Major,” on the other hand, are much heavier emo jams.
Must Hear: “Open Casket,” “Closing Argument” and “No EQ”
