Music Mailbag October 2023 

• Dalton Buckman
• Stella Standingbear

Soultown Revivalists, "Love Has a Way": Soultown Revivalists made their memorable debut earlier this summer with a larger-than-life sound. The R&B/neo-soul group just released the third single from their forthcoming debut album Burning Daylight—and man, is "Love Has a Way" a good one. It's a soft, slow yet cheerful tune that still has the smoothness of the other tracks, but lets you take it in more gradually. If you don't consider yourself a fan of R&B or soul, or haven't heard much, this is a great introduction—especially if you're interested in supporting local talent. The song will have you believing in love again if you're jaded, or maybe start to believe in it if you didn't before. It has the smooth soul feeling as mentioned before, but the production is so well done that it adds an extra layer to that buttery feeling. Three down and many more to go until we hear the rest of Soultown Revivalists' new album, but we'll have to be patient until then. "Love Has a Way" is streaming everywhere now.

Simba Sax, self-titled debut: "As a lover of both electronic and live music, I wanted to create a familiar yet fresh sonic experience for the listener," Simba Sax, AKA Evan Flemming, said about their new album. "Punchy drums, deep bass lines and syncopated grooves set the album's foundations, while organic melodies and instruments provide a unique respite from the current landscape of the tech-house dominated club scene. Music has the power to awaken our imagination and it's my hope that these songs act as a vehicle to experience a world from within your headphones." I recently stated that I didn't realize how much more saxophone I needed in my life, and that sentiment is further confirmed after listening to Simba Sax's new album. It's not just the sax, though; Flemming's unique brand of "exotic-electronic" is so addicting and impossible to hold still while listening to. It incorporates so many interesting sounds and technical skills that you'll want to dive in and get lost in the album for days. This sophisticated take on electronic music is great for already fans of the genre, or those wanting to branch out. This album is a must-add to your collection. Simba Sax is streaming everywhere now.

The Gontiks, "Today, Tonight," "Afraid": These two new singles from locals The Gontiks are an indie rock fan's dream. The band always creates a dreamy, melodic journey with their music, but these new releases in particular are some of their best work yet. They're releasing two new singles on Friday, Oct 13, and they're a must-listen for fans of good old-fashioned indie rock. You get electric guitar that's not too crunchy but still has great effects, along with echoey vocals and mellow drums. "Today, Tonight" has these elements, and it's a song peaceful enough that you could drift off to sleep to, or even cranked up driving down the freeway having a main character moment. "Afraid" takes a more high-energy approach, meant for dancing and playing air guitar. If you lean more towards heavier rock, this is a track for you. You get louder and heavier guitar effects here, but also some delightful electronic elements that will catch your attention. Neither of these new songs will leave you feeling like you're listening to just any old indie band—you know you're listening to The Gontiks. "Today, Tonight" and "Afraid" will be streaming everywhere Oct 13.

Scott Lippitt, "Scene-By-Scene": Autum brings many delicious treats: pumpkin spice, apple cider, cookies and new singles from indie-pop artist Scott Lippitt. Well, perhaps not every autumn in the latter cae, but as we settle into cool weather and spooky season, Lippitt gives us a new single to snack on. '"Scene-by-Scene' takes listeners into an introspective yet catchy world of synths, drum machines, soft vocals and comfortable pillows of acoustic guitar panned in each ear," according to the singer/songwriter. "Reminiscent of an impossible but would-be-awesome Beach House x Elliott Smith collab, this song strikes a warm chord." Like a tasty treat, the latest single from Lippitt is a great comfort. He has a soft and gentle voice that never gets old, plus he incorporates electronic elements with acoustic instruments in a way that feels fresh, but still has warmth, like hugging a good friend. "Ever since Beach House released Bloom in 2012, I've been so attracted to arpeggiated, soft, and reverb-y synths," he said. "This is the first time I've explored creating those sounds for myself." "Scene-By-Scene" is streaming everywhere now.

Stella Standingbear, Crossing Over: Alt-rap extraordinaire Stelling Standingbear is back with a brand-new EP featuring six fresh and original tracks. 2023 has been a busy and productive period for Standingbear, this being her second EP this year. If you're a fan of rap/hip-hop, Crossing Over is mandatory listening. I am by no means an authority on these genres, but it doesn't take an expert to know that what Standingbear is doing is excellent. Originally from the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota, Standingbear now resides in SLC where she shares her powerful and uplifting messages that resonate deeply with audiences. Her growing influence is sure to grow even larger with this new EP—considering its off-the-charts production, beautiful vocals and strong lyrics, you'll wonder why you didn't give her a listen sooner. From the high-energy, bass-heavy beats of "Too Fly" to the moody, alternative vibes of "I Don't Mind," the EP promises a captivating musical journey that explores varying emotions and experiences. The EP is a testament to her artistic prowess and her ability to connect with audiences on a profound level. Give Crossing Over a listen—you won't regret it.