Underdog Press

Welcome to Underdog Press! We're a NYC based online magazine here to give you interviews, updates, and reviews on your favorite bands/artist. Underdog Press Issue #6 featuring THE READY SET - Available Now! Read it HERE Underdog(s) Online Contact Us: [email protected] Past Issues News Videos Exclusive Pictures Reviews Interviews Underdogs on the Rise Tour Updates Warped Tour Twitter Facebook Youtube (function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){i['GoogleAnalyticsObject']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){ (i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o), m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m) })(window,document,'script','//www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js','ga'); ga('create', 'UA-48819242-1', 'underdogpress.net'); ga('send', 'pageview');

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Trophy Eyes Release Energetic Music Video for “You Can Count On Me” | New Record “The American Dream” Coming Soon

Trophy Eyes are bringing a new record to life on August 3rd via Hopeless Records. You can watch the music video for their newest single “You Can Count On Me”  below. Pre-order The American Dream here.

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Underdogs on the Rise: Birdgangs

Searching for some straight-forward Boston based Rock and Roll? You’re in luck! Birdgangs have released a funky, nostalgia inducing debut EP. Maximum Suction is a telling six track EP laced with wit and honest stories from the band’s lyricist, Jack Davis.

The album flows effortlessly, so effortlessly it’s almost difficult to tell when a one song has ended and another has begun. Even though this may seem repetitive on the record of an established band, for a relatively young band like Birdgangs, it works in their favor. The garage-rock attitude shines through as it feels casual and cool. 

Although seemingly unsure of what they’re doing, Birdgangs is on the right track. Destined to be local heroes and garage-rock greatness if they keep pushing forward with simple and honest music. Any EP that makes you feel like you’re jamming out with friends in the basement of a house show is a winner. Listen for youself! Stream the full record on Spotify here.

Follow Birdgangs on Facebook

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Exclusive Photos: New Politics, Dreamers & More - New York City

New Politics brought their high energy Lost In Translation Tour to New York City last week. The packed room at Irving Plaza was fully enveloped in the band’s stunning light design and crowd interaction. Their fourth studio album, Lost In Translation, was released last October via DCD2/Warner Brothers. You can purchase the record here. Head below to view a full gallery of the night also featuring PARKWILD, The Wrecks, and Dreamers.

All photos by Carol Simpson

PARKWILD:

The Wrecks:

Dreamers:

New Politics:

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Interview: Matt Clarke of Milestones | Red Lights Available Now Via Fearless Records

We caught up with Matt Clarke, the vocalist of Milestones, shortly after the release of their Fearless Records debut Red Lights. It’s incredible to know that Milestones have only been a band since 2014, but have already come so far in four short years. The band’s anthemic Pop/Rock sound has allowed them to make the crossover to the American alternative scene. They have shared the stage with massive bands like Simple Plan, Taking Back Sunday, and Hawthorne Heights. They’re officially ready to kick their career into high gear with their full-length album.

On releasing the record Matt says, “It feels incredible to have people finally be able to hear it. I don’t think nervous is the best way of describing how we feel, we’ve more just been itching to get it out. We’ve not really had time to be nervous.” With 15 hour writing sessions and countless more hours working with their producer Phil Gornell, it’s no surprise the band had no time to be nervous. They were hard at work refining their sound or the record and pushing their creative limits. Two years of working on a record is a sure sign that it was a carefully crafted project for the band.

“I think the 15-hour writing sessions everyday were both great and bad. We proved to ourselves just how much this album required to make it work. We grew so much as writers, you know, we started writing this album at 18…we recorded it at 20. That’s 2 years of growing as musicians and writers, so it’s insane to see the progression in the demos and I’m pleased we waited and recorded an album with substance to it.” Matt says. Their two years of growth in the studio went hand-in-hand with Phil’s growth as an up and coming producer. The band recalls him being an instrumental piece of the puzzle and expect big things for his future. He is equally as “proud” of the record as the band is and he “poured his soul into it”.

When the naysayers come in packs and the demons really start itching at the side of your skull at 3am, it’s about running the red lights and getting through anyway.

That joint effort shines through the songs and their deep, honest lyricism. A key track on the album is “This Is My Life” and it’s a strong representation of who Milestones is and what they hope to accomplish as a band. About the song Matt says “’This Is My Life’ really kinda just shapes the meaning of the album. It’s about not stopping when the world tells you too; when the naysayers come in packs and the demons really start itching at the side of your skull at 3am, it’s about running the red lights and getting through anyway. We’ve had so many people tell us we can’t do this, "This Is My Life" is a fuck you to them. We’re not saying we will do it, but we’re saying we’re not gonna listen to you if you say we won’t”

Every song on the record has a story or a moment behind it. Despite working on the record for an extended period of time, some songs were more difficult to write than others. “Once Upon A Time” was one of the more difficult songs. Matt recalls demoing the song for months on end and finishing the song the day before recording it. On the other end of the spectrum is a song that was the easiest to write that Matt has labeled as his favorite. “The easiest was by far "Against The World" (which is probably my favourite). I think it’s the songs that take the longest and shortest that end up being the best. You’ve either used your whole heart or your whole mind and half/half usually just sounds transparent and 2-dimensional.”

Red Lights is available now for for purchase and streaming on every major platform via Fearless Records. “The meaning of life is 42.”

DIGITAL: http://found.ee/RedLights

BUNDLES: http://found.ee/MilestonesBundles

Keep up with Milestones:

http://milestonesband.co.uk

Facebook.com/MilestonesUK

Twitter.com/UKMilestones

Instagram.com/UKMilestones

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Premiere: Stream Catalina’s Anthemic New Single, “Think You’d Fool Me” | Available Everywhere Tomorrow

Catalina is back with an empowering and anthemic second single. The song was inspired by a close friend that got caught up in a relationship that turned out to be a catfish. Head below to see what Catalina has to say about the single and to stream the full track. “Think You’d Fool Me” is currently available for pre-order here before it’s released tomorrow!

The sweetest revenge is to not be bothered by your desperado. Keep your head high, keep the silence strong and live your life because they will squirm at the thought of your independent success and their failure  - Catalina

Keep up with Catalina on all of her pages: Website: http://www.catalinamusic.net/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/catalinasmusic YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/c/CatalinaMusic Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/catalinasmusic Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/catalinasmusic

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Exclusive Photos: Of Mice & Men - Gramercy Theater - NYC

Of Mice & Men are off to a great start in 2018. They have been through some major changes, but that didn’t stop the band from their headlining tour. They rocked a sold show at the Gramercy Theater in New York City. Head below to see more photos from the night, including photos of Cane Hill, Fire From The Gods, and Blessthefall.

All photos by Carol Simpson.

Cane Hill:

Fire From The Gods:

Blessthefall:

Of Mice & Men:

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Milestones Present a Refreshing Pop-Punk Debut

Red Lights is lighthearted, straightforward pop-punk. It isn’t gimmicky or distasteful. Their Fearless Records debut is an excellent jump off point for the UK quartet. They’re presenting influences from their favorites, but creating a path all their own. The album is a culmination of the band’s efforts while in the studio with producer Phil Gornell. Their insane 15-hour writing sessions were worth it. 

“BitterSweetHeart” opens the record with a strong introduction to Milestones if you haven’t listened to them previously. “I’d be lying if I told you I’m okay” is just a taste of the catchy lyrics. It’s an emotion driven song that’s pouring out pure honesty.  

“Once Upon A Time” has strong instrumentation and dynamics that make up for the at times cliché lyricism. The song has a certain edge to it that shows its true rock roots. “Paranoid” continues this instrumental bite. Their guitar driven tracks are powered by Matt Clarke’s impressive vocal ability. His natural talent shines through as he effortlessly keeps up with the records fast pace.

“Against The World” throws you in a different direction with a soft intro. It graciously transitions into the uplifting chorus. “We are dreamers and it’s me against the world” paired with gang vocals makes it the feel-good tune teenagers are searching for. That extra little boost of motivation among pop-punk songs filled with angst.

“This Is My Life” continues the uplifting theme running through the record. The extended intro gives you a small break before barreling into an anthem meant to excite the masses. A song that is meant to make you feel a sense of worth and erase feelings of loneliness for a few minutes.

Milestones have put together a record that makes you want to sing along at the top of your lungs. If Red Lights is any indication of how 2018 is going to be for this band, then it’s going to a massive year for them. If you’re a fan of early Mayday Parade, All Time Low, and You Me At Six, Milestones’ Red Lights will fill you with a sense of nostalgia while giving you that familiar excitement of discovering your new favorite band.

Follow Milestones:

Twitter

Instagram

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Exclusive Photos: ZZ Ward, Black Pistol Fire, & Billy Raffoul - NYC - 2.15.18

ZZ Ward rocked a headlining gig at Irving Plaza in New York City last Thursday. Billy Raffoul and Black Pistol Fire opened the show with electrifying sets. Head below to see more photos from the night.

All photos by Carol Simpson

Billy Raffoul:

Black Pistol Fire:

ZZ Ward:

Follow Underdog Press on Twitter for more updates! @Underdog_Press

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Exclusive Photos: I The Victor - Mahall’s - 2.14.18

Everyone’s favorite posi performer, I The Victor, hit Mahall’s with The Orphan, The Poet this past week. What better way to spend Valentine’s day!? Head below to see more photos from the night.

All photos by Mckenzie Holivay.

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Warm Your Heart This Valentine’s Day With The Frights | Listen to “Valentine’s Sux”

Photo Creds: Rowan Daly

The Frights are here to save the day with their “bouncy” Valentine’s anthem. The clever and seemingly anti-V-day song is a catchy and entertaining hit. Head below to see the official lyric. Oh and the band has just signed with Epitaph Records!

We couldn't be more excited to start a new path with Epitaph. Some of our favorite bands have been on this label and it seems pretty bizarre that we're joining them. Super, super stoked. - Mikey Carnevale (vocals/guitar)

Tour Dates

March 9 Las Vegas, NV - Eagle Aerie Hall

March 10 Phoenix, AZ - Flying Burrito Fest

March 12 Tucson, AZ - 191 Toole

March 13 El Paso, TX - Lowbrow Palace

March 14-16 Austin, TX @ SXSW

March 17 Dallas, TX - Trees

March 19 New Orleans, LA – Republic NOLA

March 21 Corpus Christi, TX - House of Rock

March 22 McAllen, TX - Yerberia Cultura

March 24 Houston, TX - In Bloom Festival

http://thefrights.com

https://www.facebook.com/frightsband/

https://twitter.com/thefrights

https://www.instagram.com/thefrights

https://dafrights.bandcamp.com/

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Album Review: Speak Low If You Speak Love - Nearsighted

Speak Low If You Speak Love is starting 2018 off right with a new record. Nearsighted is the culmination of an “immense” recording process for Ryan Scott Graham. That hard work paid off and produced a record full of instrumental intricacies and gripping lyrics.

Nearsighted is Speak Low If You Speak Love’s sophomore record. Everything But What You Need was released in 2015. The growth within that three year time period is extremely evident. The album features exciting instrumentation that goes beyond emotional acoustic rock. This is a heart filled Indie Rock record that tastefully dips into some electro elements. 

Enough is a smooth marriage of synth, guitar, and a near funky bass line. This track is an exciting and almost dark side of Speak Low. The vocals are simple and edgy as they dance around transcendental instrumentation.

Contrasting Colors is a beautiful combination of old and new. The honest and poetic lyricism is classic Speak Low. It’s simple with guitar and piano and few extra accessories, but not overdressed at all. “You and I may never be lovers” is a strong tag line that is bound to make anyone think about that certain someone. If you’re listening to the album in order, let’s just say it’s going to hit you in the feels VERY early on.

The outro for Contrasting Colors is stunning and collides right into Ever Yours. This drum driven track feels like a sequel, but not in a repetitive and boring way. “Was I ever yours? Was I ever more?” is like a pleading call, but also doesn’t seem too eager for an answer against the guitar riff.

Your Love It Runs features a deep and subtle bass line with some experimentation with horns at key points of the song. The song displays Graham’s artistry through his musical risks.

Cannot Have It All is touching and honest. Much like Contrasting Colors it’s simple and poetic, but Graham executes this in a way that isn’t boring or emotionless. The song is an ode to holding back in order to protect yourself.

Hold Me Now is a standout track on the album. It’s jazzy, but electrified at certain points. The vocal effects add a mesmerizing quality. It feels like the peaceful ending of a long, exhausting battle. This track is followed up by Swell which feels like a sigh of relief and breathe of fresh air. It feels hopeful, but still carries the weight of uncertainty. The guitar on this track is what makes it. 

This record is long overdue, but well worth the wait. It’s evident that it was carefully executed. Every track is so different and has something new for the listener to dive into. There’s a lot to unpack here and it will take multiple listens front to back to capture every special element. Even with the differences track to track, Nearsighted is a finely crafted record that is setting the tone for Speak Low If You Speak Love’s year.

Nearsighted will be available everywhere via Pure Noise Records on January 19th.

Follow Underdog Press on Twitter for more updates @Underdog_Press!

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5 Alt-Pop Acts to Listen to in 2018

New year, new chances to discover new music. Alt-Pop is genre full of rule-breakers and exciting musical risks. Here are some favorites you need to add to your playlist.

Pale Waves

Photo Creds: Danny North

Their EP All The Things I Never Said hasn’t even been released yet, but the band’s singles have earned them positive reviews in their home across the pond and here in America. Luckily for you, Pale Waves just announced a huge North American headliner in support of their upcoming release.

The Regrettes

If you missed The Regrettes touring with SWMRS this past fall then you missed out big time. You can make up for it by catching the band at major festivals like Gov Ball in NYC and Coachella.

Diet Cig

Photo Creds: Emily Quirk

Okay so more like Alt-rock/pop, but do genres even really matter? The answer is no. This band rules and everyone should know it.

Alvvays

Canadian greatness. You can purchase their latest record Antisocialites on Bandcamp.

Jet Black Alley Cat

Photo Creds: Samantha Hearn

How is Jet Black Alley Cat not the biggest band in the world yet? Their addictive sound is drenched in vintage vibes. Eveyrthing the band does seems to be carefully calculated in the best way possible.

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Emo Nite LA Announces New Tour

Emo Nite LA is bringing the party across the US again. This is only the first set of dates for 2018 so don’t worry if they aren’t hitting your city this time around. You can purchase tickets at EmoNite.com

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Best Albums of 2017

2017 was a great year for music. Here are our selections for best albums of the year. Some incredible industry vets and some newcomers you need to keep an eye on in 2018. In no particular order because ranking is lame, right?

Sunday Brunch - Chapel

Chapel released a funky and aesthetically pleasing record this year. Make sure you listen to Miss Monogamy, Cindy White, and Fool’s Gold. Purchase here.

After Laughter - Paramore

Paramore made growing up an art form. Didn’t everyone have this record on repeat for several months?? Alternative/Pop greatness. We dare you to listen to 26 and NOT cry. Purchase here.

Adornment - Grayscale

Truly a breakout band of the year. Adornment is top quality pop-punk paired with velvety vocals. Purchase here.

Here Again - A Will Away

If you aren’t listening to A Will Away, what are you doing with yourself? Here I Am is a captivating full length that shows the world who this band is. Purchase on Bandcamp.

It Could Be Worse...And It Is - The Fairview

Good ol’ Massachsetts Pop-Punk, except not cheesy or cringeworthy. Check out this 4 track EP to get lost in honest lyrics. Purchase on Bandcamp. 

Jackal - I The Victor

Two things to add to your to-do list: listen to Jackal in its entirety and then check out I The Victor this winter on tour with The Orphan, The Poet. Purchase Jackal here.

Dua Lipa - Dua Lipa

Here’s your girl power record of the year. Dance around your room with some friends and jam to New Rules and IDGAF. She’s also the most streamed female artist of 2017. Purchase here.

If You Were Awake - Crystal Clear

If You Were Awake flows effortlessly from beginning to end. Crystal Clear is local Indie Pop-Rock greatness. Listen to Rough Draft, Crowded Brain, and These Bugs. Purchase on Bandcamp.

What Do You Think About The Car? - Declan McKenna

Declan McKenna is the fresh face that Indie Rock/Pop music needs. His debut full length album was the icing on the cake of a tremendous year. Make sure you listen to The Kids Don’t Wanna Come Home, Make Me Your Queen, and Brazil. Purchase here.

Not Bitter - Bonsai Trees

Bonsai Trees was featured our Underdogs on the Rise a few months ago. Not Bitter is the culmination of several years of hard work for this CT duo. Purchase here.

Lovely, Little, Lonely - The Maine

The Maine can do no wrong. Lovely, Little Lonely may be the band’s sixth studio album, but it highlights their growth as a band. Purchase here.

Did we forget your favorite album of the year?? Tweet us angrily @Underdog_Press!

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Senses Fail Announce Sick Winter Tour with Reggie and the Full Effect, Have Mercy, and Household

Senses Fail will be releasing a new record on February 16th via Pure Noise Records. They’ll be heading out on a headlining tour in support of it. The incredible lineup includes Reggie and the Full Effect, Have Mercy, and Household as support.

The tour kicks off on February 27th in Santa Ana, CA. Pre-sale tickets are on sale now at SensesFail.com. You can listen to their latest single “Double Cross” here. 

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Underdogs on the Rise: Best Behavior

Photo creds: Anthony Mulcahy

If you’re looking for some sunny indie rock to warm you up this December make sure you check out Best Behavior. This NYC based band recently released a killer ep titled “Things That Happened”. You can read our review of it here. Head below to read a Q&A with Alex.

Introduce yourself and tell us your role in the band.

I’m Alex and I write songs for Best Behavior. I also sing and play guitar. Sometimes I like to play drums when no one is looking.

How did Best Behavior come together?

I started writing a lot of material out of no where. I ended up recording it in Brooklyn. A friend of mine asked us to play a New Years Eve show and we went for it.

Tell me about the making “Things That Happened”. Was this an easy project to create? Did it come naturally or were these songs that you guys had been working on for a while?

This is definitely the most longest group of songs I’ve ever worked on. Felt like it took forever! You get lost in the madness of it all sometimes.

Where was it recorded?

We recorded it at Diamond City Studios which just relocated to Greenpoint. It used to be in TriBeCa. Very chill vibes 

It’s a phenomenal record and so well produced. How do you guys think this record stands among the bustle of a busy New York City music scene? I know you’ve said before that you don’t fit in and don’t want to, but how is that coming through via the record and your live performance?

Thank You! I think we went after that “wall of sound” type of feel with a little bit of gloss on the record. The live set has more of a raw vibe. I like seeing bands interpret themselves in different settings, it’s fun. I think this EP is a nice window into our view from NYC. We define ourselves by our experiences  

It has only been out for a little over a week, how has it been received? Do you have any specific expectations for the record?

I try not to psych myself out when I release music. Expectations are so dangerous. I think people are digging it though.

The sweet garage pop sound is definitely something that so many different types of listeners could enjoy, what kind of bands are you drawing influence from?

I love artists like Metronomy, Phoenix, and Vince Staples. Anything with a great groove. It’s really important to me.

Other than garage pop, describe Best Behavior in two words?

Bad Behavior.

What do you hope Best Behavior accomplishes by the end of the year?

We’d like to hit the west coast and give em a high five!

Any last words for the interview?

Believe in yourself!

[underdogpress]

Review: Best Behavior Deliver Enticing Garage Pop With “Things That Happened” EP

Best Behavior’s four track “Things That Happened” EP is an exciting and refreshing garage pop/indie rock record. You can purchase the EP here

The single “Say” is a vibrant and uplifting track. The distinctive guitar riff throughout works hand in hand with a funky bass line. The song eases into a soft acoustic bridge that breaks into a quick and gritty guitar solo.

“Catherine No Chaser” opens with a funky instrumental and silly yet enticing lyrics. It’s a fun and dreamy hit. This track also highlights their strategic use of bass to keep the groove going.

The title track “Things That Happened” is a fast paced subtle hit. Very reminiscent of The Strokes. The vocals and the use of effects over certain part adds a vintage feel that perfectly complements the guitar.

“As I Wait” is a bass driven track. The lyrics are like a open diary oozing emotion with the seemingly effortless instrumentation.

Best Behavior have delivered a cohesive masterpiece with this EP. It’s a clear representation of who they are as a band, but it will easily help them stand out as the next best thing in music.