Press Shuffle: Songs To Rock Out To

posted in: Reviews & Playlists • Rock

I challenge you to find someone that doesn’t like rock music. You may find this task nearly impossible to do, and the reason is simple: Rock music is incredibly diverse and influential. It’s been the music of every generation since the ’50s, and it’s still as relevant as ever. Nowadays, there’s a plethora of sub-genres that have spawned throughout the years from subcultures in many regions of the world, and each of these has its own defining identity. In homage to the rock genre (much used as an umbrella term), we’ve collected many catchy songs from this super set and chosen a select few representatives to showcase the variety of rockin’ music we’ve got available here on OurStage. Don’t let these guys intimidate you; head on over to the Rock Channels and get ready to discover more future rock stars.

“Echoes” – Water and Bodies: In a modern take on the alternative rock sound of the late ’90s, Water and Bodies offer a tune that is very musical and undoubtedly catchy. Good songwriting is often overlooked, but this songwriting is a definite display of what this band can do.

“Stuck In Patterns” – KERKHOF: Another musician with a focus on songwriting. The melancholic vibe of the song is quickly transmitted at the beginning of the track, and the vocal harmonies convey an unsettling tone as the song crescendos in the chorus.

“Cranberry Juice” – Tyler James and the Exchange: An intro deceivingly reminiscent to Incubus leads into a pop-like melody that just screams Maroon 5; these bands are by no means terrible acts to be associated with. Funk rock always makes for a good time, and even more so when it’s as groovy and tight as this.

“Nothing To Lose” – The Color Gray: When your music is so riff driven (as is the case with hard rock), many musicians focus on just getting that heavy guitar sound and disregard the potential to write memorable songs. Chris Hawkes, the mastermind behind The Color Gray, takes this song to the upper tier of hard rock with a powerful performance and a viral riff.

“Try To Light My Fuse” – The NowhereNauts: In a nice contrast to the previous tune, this group of indie rockers give us a healthy dose of feelgood energy. The production is lo-fi enough to keep the aesthetic appeal of the scene, yet the real power in this track lies in a live performance; why not take a chance?

“Punk Rock Idiot” – Kings Of The Delmar: This is what late ’70s punk rock was all about. Excessive energy, careless attitude and unrefined musicianship were all requirements to be a part of this scene. Rebellion oozes from the music and lyrics. If you want some old-school fun, then you’re in luck.

“One For All” – The Bastard Suns: Simple crunchy riffs, carefree party lyrics, huge hooks and gang vocals; the perfect combination for a successful modern pop punk band. This up-and-coming Atlanta band are the southern version of the Dropkick Murphys, and this song packs a definite punch.

Have any tunes in particular that you care to share? Disagree with any of the picks? Want a theme in particular to be Shuffled? Let us know by dropping a comment!

Listen to previous Press Shuffle playlists over at 8tracks.com.

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