Painted Zeros- This American Life

A very dreamy side of noise pop from Brooklyn, NY.

Painted Zeros is the brain child of Katie Lau, Although the band is a three piece, Katie records and mixes everything in her practice space and bedroom.

Their sound, and in particular the vocals remind me of if Marine Girls had headed in a more shoegazing direction. Although, other material such as the track “Call Back" proves they’re not afraid to be a bit more upbeat.

This is available on the EP S V A L B A R D, which will be released on November 22nd.

Fifth Column- Like This

Fifth column were an experimental post-punk band from Toronto, Ontario. They are credited as a major influence on the creation of queercore. They actively collaborated with other queer artists, including now-famed director Bruce Labruce who served as their onstage go-go dancer. Founding member G.B. Jones is also behind cult film The Yo Yo Gang, which features Donna Dresch of Team Dresch.

In 2012 they were the subject of a documentary film called She Said Boom: The Story of Fifth Column. (Fun fact: song “She Said, ‘Boom.’" also inspired the name of a fantastic record store in Toronto.)

This song is available on their album, All-Time Queen Of The World.

Betty Blowtorch- I’m Ugly and I Don’t Know Why

This song was originally released by (yes, this is an actual band name I have to type out) Butt Trumpet in the mid-90s. After that group split, three members went on to form Betty Blowtorch who would record their own version. The extended pumpkin seed rant on this one makes it my favourite.

Looking back, it almost seems like a parody of other bands that were playing at the time, but I don’t think they meant to be taken 100% seriously anyway. This was the sort of act that brought their own pyrotechnics to even the smallest of clubs. They were notorious for their live shows.

On a more sombre note, vocalist Bianca died in 2001 after accepting a ride with a drunk driver.

The footage from this video is taken from the documentary Betty Blowtorch And Her Amazing True Life Adventures, which followed the band for two years leading up to the tragedy.

The song is available on their album, Are You Man Enough?

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Listen/download: Dark Times Tape by DARK TIMES

I have posted about Dark Times before, but this is an important last minute announcement. They’re coming all the way from Oslo, Norway to perform in London tonight. It’s at The Old Blue Last in Shoreditch, and it’s FREE. If you’re in the area, you don’t have a reason to miss it. Go and see why they’re gaining such praise as a live band, pick up some merch, and tell all of your friends.

Cold Lovers- Boring Life

And in this week’s edition of “Oh this is amazing! I’ve found my new favourite band I hope I get to see them- OH they broke up” we have Cold Lovers. They were a hardcore punk band from Chicago. Some members are now in powerhouse outfit Distract, who are also worth a listen. Still, I can’t help but wonder how awesome this would have been to hear live.

Wolf Girl- Freudian Slips

They’ve only been together for a year, but this band’s musical output is already really impressive. The vocals are typically shared between Carl and Becky, but this song in particular sees the latter take on lead.

The band name itself gives you an image of vintage horror movies, and the music would be a fitting soundtrack against black and white images of leather jackets and motorcycles (and monsters). They’ve clearly been inspired by classic garage bands. However, there’s also a nod to great twee bands of the late 80s and early 90s.

If you’re in London this weekend, catch them at Girl Germs in Dalston! Event here.

Sacred Paws- ~R I D E

Sacred Paws are a duo from Glasgow/London, in that they make the long distance trip between the two cities just to practice. They also play together in Golden Grrrls.

The few songs released so far feel like only a hint of what kind of sound they want to create. Eilidh Rodgers’ drumming feels inspired by both 60’s freakbeat and jazz, while the guitar is a throwback to c86. I was reminded of Trash Kit, only to then find out that guitarist Rachel Aggs IS from that band. That is to say then, that she is crafting her own unique way of playing. I’m really looking forward to more material.

Black Girl Friday.

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