Posted: by The Alt Editing Staff
The Alternative Weekly Roundup is a column where our staff plugs a variety of new releases in a concise, streamlined format. Albums, singles, videos, and live sets. Check back each Monday to see what we were jamming the week prior.
SIXLET – Demo
I’m always saying that the best emo music is made by people from hardcore bands. SIXLET, comprising members of SCARAB and SPLATTERED SPINE—lots of all-caps S names, huh?—is another case in point. The band just signed to Sunday Drive Records off the strength of their Demo, and they fit in well alongside that label’s other throwback emo groups.
Zac Djamoos | @gr8whitebison
Scowl – “Tonight (I’m Afraid)“
“Tonight (I’m Afraid)” is the softest and most melodic song Scowl has released to this point. Kat Moss’ vocals are smooth and dreamy, and it’s got a delicate, immediately memorable hook—but about halfway through the whole thing breaks down. The band picks up speed abruptly and barrels toward a throat-searing climax that hits as hard as any of their earlier, heavier work.
Zac Djamoos | @gr8whitebison
Downward – Downward (LP2)
Downward have gradually evolved into one of the most captivating indie/emo rock bands since their debut in 2018. On their surprise sophomore album Downward (LP2) they continue to deliver emotionally moving songs with hushed David Bazan-like vocals, thoughtfully cultivated atmospheres, and instrumental gestures that pull from post rock, emo, and alternative rock. With some of their most diverse songs yet, they deftly balance the weight of melancholy with a touch of luminosity for what is certain to be an album of the year contender for many. Downward (LP2) is now streaming everywhere and vinyl pre-orders are available through New Morality Zine.
Loan Pham | @x_loanp
Harrison Gordon – Spring Break!
Weed emo is back, baby. It’s good again. Last year it was Combat’s Stay Golden, and I’ve got a feeling this year Harrison Gordon can be the breakout band of 2025. Their new Spring Break! EP took everything I liked about The Yuppies Are Winning and ramps it up—snottier, catchier, packed with even bigger riffs and even more self-loathing. That’s what it’s all about.
Zac Djamoos | @gr8whitebison
Gully Boys – “Love Me 2”
The latest single from Gully Boys is the feisty “Love Me 2,” a dark and infectious pop-punk rager. Its video, featuring Motion City Soundtrack’s Justin Pierre, taps the same sort of anger that the song exudes, but in a slightly different direction.
Zac Djamoos | @gr8whitebison
The Alternative’s ‘New Music Friday’ playlist
Each week we compile a playlist of songs our staff has been jamming. We post it on Fridays and then include it in each edition of the Weekly Roundup to make sure you don’t miss any of the great music we’re recommending.
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