Sound Check

“Summer Sadness”

Motide
Station One Records

Released in January, Motide’s single “Summer Sadness” also features the vocals of Ancient Posse’s Kamillah Jonaé. The Motide two-piece consists of Gabe Scheid and Jeremy Franklin, who “push the boundaries of music, art, technology, and their environment to create soundscapes that are meditative and transcendent,” as described on Station One’s website. While it is a mouthful, I’ve never read a more accurate and concise summation of sound.
“Summer Sadness” is a great showcase of two of Iowa’s emerging electronic bands. On the track, Motide adds a jazz flair (with the saxophone) to the genre, which sounds messy in theory but in execution is done effortlessly. Motide’s soundscape also has a slight hip-hop feel, and Jonaé’s captivating vocals creates a relaxing R&B vibe. All these elements coming together result in a song that is perfect for sinking into and getting lost in. ♦

“On The Rocks”

Midland
Big Machine Records

I am not a fan of modern country music, but I am a super fan of this band. Midland’s debut album “On The Rocks” was released in September, and I wish I had stumbled upon it sooner. Lead singer Mark Wystrach is the male model turned country heart throb of my dreams that I didn’t know I needed, but that’s not the reason the impeccably dressed country music trio captured my heart. What sets Midland apart is their throwback appeal to older country music and a sound that comes across as far less manufactured than their contemporaries. Internet fans often refer to the band as “the revival of real country.”

“Drinkin’ Problem” was nominated for two Grammys. Sadly, it didn’t win, but it sure is catchy. Take the chorus: “People say I got a drinkin’ problem, but I got no problem drinkin’ at all.” It doesn’t get more country than that, folks. “Lonely Only For You” is a stand-out sad love song, but my favorite is the jaunty “Make A Little.” Midland references some moves called “turtle dove” and “dixieland delight.” These dreamboats are playing at Big Country Bash this summer, and you can bet your turtle dove I’ll be there. ♦