Wednesday, May 28, 2014

Charlotte musicians abound with national releases

The month of May began with the release of Charlotte folk-rock band Matrimony’s Columbia Records' full-length debut "Montibello Memories." The group celebrates its release locally Friday at Neighborhood Theatre. But Matrimony isn't the only Charlotte act currently releasing material on a national level. 

Last week nationally buzzed about Charlotte cult rapper Deniro Farrar released his "Rebirth" EP (pictured) via Vice Records, which is home to eclectic acts like Black Lips, Action Bronson, and the Raveonettes. The EP has been well received by outlets like XXL and Spin and praised for its grittiness and realism. 

Yesterday Charlotte black metal/crust punk band Young and in the Way (YAITW) released its debut for Deathwish Inc.The album, “When Life Comes to Death,” was previewed via advance stream at Pitchfork.com along with albums by Crowbar and the Dum Dum Girls spin-off Haunted Hearts. That kind of consideration - national press and placement alongside better known artists - confirms that more and more Charlotte bands are making headway on a wider scale.

There’s also a lot going on release-wise this summer. For starters Charlotte-based progressive metal quintet Wretched releases “Cannibal” - its fourth album for Victory Records - June 10.


It Looks Sad will release its quite excellent “Radical” as a 7 inch single on Carolina indie label Tiny Engines in August. The track has already got a plug from Pitchfork. 

While the Carolinas are rich in musical history and have exported numerous artists to the world stage, it's nice to see more Charlotte acts getting recognized. Yes we're home to several Grammy winning R&B and gospel artists and have a thriving roots music community, but it's nice to see underground, independent hip-hop and rock artists and major label hopefuls recognized on a larger scale too. 

You can check out many of these artists at the provided links.