On This Day In
Richmond Music

December 16th

Versatile pioneer BLACK KRAY releases his eight mixtape, SHITTY SICKBOY, in 2015, a daring evolution of his groundbreaking cloud rap sound, laying the foundation for what would later emerge as tread rap.
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Noise provocateur Eve Is the Bastard release Suburban Disposal in 2023, a four-movement suite of seething static and eruptive tonal chaos, channeling raw bursts of fury and smoldering resentment that ultimately explodes.
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Electronic auteur PERMANENT releases Hunger Or Nausea in 2022, a raw exploration of DIY techno that forges industrial endurance through tormented soundscapes and blistering, overdriven beats.
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Beatdown ruffians Watchdogs release their demo record in 2016, a ferocious three-track hardcore frenzy that rips, roars, and reverberates through all the right raging realms.
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Force-savvy beat making duo Kenobi Style release EP IV: A New Dope in 2015, a creative alliance between Don Chirashi and F1NG3RS that distills the hip-hop spirit from the iconic clash between the Rebel Alliance and the Galactic Empire.
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Protean creator Persis release Old Vibes; New Vibes in 2011, a varied blend of ambient drone soundscapes, lo-fi folk excursions, and garage-psych vignettes that embody the perpetual spark of creativity.
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Bounding MC Zues release Premature in 2015, a robust hip-hop album showcasing a versatile artist through a vibrant palette of rhythmic tones, each track unveiling a fresh facet of his growing craft.
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Lo-fi artist Mikael releases History, Painted Green in 2018, a four-track snapshot of year-end musings that melds introspection with a jagged sense of solace, uncovering moments of bliss within the disorienting.
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Christian hip-hop artist Charles Taylor releases Talented in 2013, a sly record that forgoes the typical sheen and exuberance of mainstream faith-based rap, instead channeling spirituality as a lens to explore the raw realities of gritty, everyday life.
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Electronic portrayer Resembler releases Winter Collection in 2022, a two-track record that encapsulates the serene beauty of wintry landscapes alongside the restless undercurrents of year-end introspection.
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December 15th

Beloved local venue Strange Matter closes its doors in 2018, ending an over four decade run of live music at 929 W Grace Street, creating a void that has yet to be filled.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

R&B legend D’Angelo And The Vanguard release Black Messiah in 2014, a surprise album that doubles as a late-career milestone, seamlessly blending avant-soul with critical political reckoning to create a stunning work of art.
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Heavy punks ROY BATTY release their self-titled record in 2018, a blistering fusion of raw energy and rebellious attitude, forging a fierce, unrelenting sound where metal, thrash, and garage rock converge.
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Rabid hardcore punks Wasted Time release their self-titled record on Grave Mistake Records in 2005, a ferocious musical invective driven by relentless rhythms, sawing riffs, and a searing vocal assault.
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Ndefru X Profound79 release Moor American Graffiti in 2023, a crafty boom bap project that channels the fluid energy of ambition and desire, exploring the romanticized ideals woven into cultural landmarks.
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Quintessential MC Drano releases Vermilion in 2023, a dense album that delivers a polished boom bap sound, infused with gritty ambience and raw energy, capturing the struggles of life and the promise of creativity.
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Groovegaze instrumentalists Lucy In Battle Armor release SOPHE in 2019, a lush album that melds hazy reveries with a cosmic ambiance, enhancing the mix with an entrancing danceable allure.
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Garage-psych rockers Black Naked Wings release white wall in 2017, a swirling cauldron of fuzzy riffs, revolving grooves, and distorted layering that immerses listeners in a haze of sonic chaos, both hypnotic and wild.
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Aural malcontent Scant release Cloud Consumption in 2011, a raging cacophony of digital distortions and dissonant destructions arranged to represent the foaming chaos of the world around and above us.
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Moving singer-songwriter Hannah Buckley release Provinces in 2017, a flowing folk album that embraces the shifting breeze with emotion, expression, and effortless grace, offering a rousing and rewarding listening experience.
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December 14th

Melodic rock charmers Horsehead release their sixth album, Pageant Wave, in 2018, an exuberant record that revitalizes their signature sound, uncovering fresh sonic treasures from their deep, well-established musical roots.
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Genetic Defekt Promotions release Recovery in 2013, a dense fourteen-track industrial compilation from a bevy of unique electronic augurs, including Fetish Drone, Trimetrick, Recon, and more!
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Frenzied punks Family Cat release Don’t Let This Be You in 2011, a exhilarating free-fall into the melodic mania of bursting rhythms and tight-knit distortion, spanning five infectious tracks.
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Electronic stitcher in Fosa release There Are Two on Foil in 2019, a deeply atmospheric record that uses experimental soundscapes to explore themes of perception, memory, and the interplay between light and dark.
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Bubbling MC AB BADD releases Humans Don’t Deserve Me in 2019, a free swing of hip-hop bluster and vulnerability that unveils the rich complexity behind lyrical swagger and head-nodding beats.
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Brandon Hurtado & Patrick Piper release their split tape in 2015, an ambient journey that glides through uneasy soundscapes to find familiar relief via curious methods.
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Acid techno producer SPIRAL INSTINCT releases BEAUTY & GRACE in 2020, an electronic convulsion divided into three interconnected movements, each as burrowing and as hypnotic as the last.
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itslolita x Digital Hell release The Dead Yankee’s Tounge in 2020, a squirming, sprawling, and spumy instrumental record that mashes hip-hop and noise punk into a roaring sound.
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The Spacebomb House Band release Library Music IV: Return Of The End Of Time in 2018, a cascade of melodic intrigue that unfolds across sixteen rich instrumentals, ranging from quick bursts to deep, immersive saturation.
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Alt-country troubadour Rob Williams releases his debut album, Southern FM, in 2015, an emotionally vibrant and melodically refined record that uncovers curious joy in life’s relentless march.
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December 13th


Versatile pioneer BLACK KRVY releases VRT MXNEY N $LVT$ in 2011, his third full-length mixtape and first to feature guest performers, which later gained notoriety for being “lost” for nearly a decade.

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Crossover thrash giants ENFORCED releases RETALIATION in 2017, a ferocious three-song EP that blends blistering speed with crushing hardcore breakdowns, showcasing their raw intensity with brutal clarity.

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Goth powerhouse Phantómódel releases Panic Picnic on Grimalkin Records in 2019, a rich record that shines a hazy spotlight on the dark corners of existence with entrancing post-punk grooves and swirling mania.

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Musical polygot Prabir releases Indian Christmas Time EP in 2021, a snapshot of intercontinental holiday memories that tell the story of discovering the world and realizing that home is wherever love resides.

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Hardcore pummelers Haircut releases their demo record in 2016, the first taste of the band’s breakneck brand of high-energy rebellion, a pure distillation of extreme punk fury.

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Progressive improvisation consortium RAIC release their ninth album, H​ä​xan (Cinema Paradiso Vol. I), in 2019, a daring score for the 1922 silent film that blends cinematic reverence with creative ingenuity.

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Vibrant producer Profound79. releases Thistypenight. in 2015, a slick beat tape that showcases his evocative style through seventeen tracks, each capturing a unique scene with crafty depth.

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Maximalist specialists Sleepwalkers release Night Sessions (Live At Spacebomb Studios) in 2018, the outcome of evening recording sessions intended for stripped-down acoustic songs, but instead yielding reverb-heavy vibe checks.

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The Spacebomb House Band release VII: Something From Something in 2019, a delightful record that embraces the intimidating wonder of electronica with a laid-back, beat-making approach.

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Art pop stylist shapey releases EP1 in 2020, a brilliantly perplexing electronic dreamscape that matches the experimental aspiration it borrows from in its lead-off track.

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December 12th

Outstanding singer-songwriter Errol Bateman releases Colorful Creature in 2018, a stunning album that highlights emotional vulnerability set against a dazzling array of sounds and styles, demonstrating truly honest and dynamic artistry.
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Experimental collective foil releases the world is a Saturday in 2018, a sprawling compilation that highlights the diverse talents of artists connected to the ensemble, each contributing their own spin on electronic soundscapes and sound collages.
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Cataclysmic sludge band Druglord releases Deepest Regrets in 2015, an imposing wall of doom that engulfs listeners with crushing riffs and unrelenting intensity.
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Vicious punks SPORE releases RATHER BE STUPID in 2022, an irascible hardcore punk record where rhythmic chaos and vocal fury drown out the jagged guitars, hiding its sonic onslaught in plain sight.
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Sonic maestro Andrew Rohlk releases Somewhere In Between in 2012, a sublime album that captivates with its melodic charm and roaming sound, blending playful finesse with irresistible hooks and grooves.
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Psych-folk droners Fyt releases Green Tape in 2022, a mesmerizing collection of soundscapes that delve deep into the soul and expand the mind, driven by genuine musical curiosity and the profound resonance of a single murmur.
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Bristly pop punk group Haverchucks release their demo record in 2010, a raw explosion of punk vitality delivered with razor-sharp precision, triumphantly reaffirming–after all these years–that “Dallas” truly does rule.
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Robust MC Tru Nyce releases Tha Intermission Vol.2 in 2011, the second installment of his bridging mixtapes, uniting distinct phases of the modular artist’s career with evolving style that mirrors his growth.
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Bursting hard rock group Chain Letter Curse release First Of The Cursed in 2020, a heavy record drenched in sharp distortion and thunderous rhythms, offering a sound that feels right at home for any fan of brawling rock music.
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Electro welder Yokai releases FDMSoul in 2020, a defining work for the rich producer, mixing flex dance music with soul to create a vivid and immersive journey into rhythmic euphoria.
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December 11th

Versatile pioneer BLACK KRAY AKA SICKBOYRARI releases WEEPN N DA TRENCH in 2017, a gripping exploration of raw pain that murmurs and contorts around a descending beat, reflecting the spiraling descent of melancholy.
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Richmond POP Vol. 1 is released in 2015, a rich fifteen-track designed to showcase the pop stylings of Richmond’s diverse scene, featuring Young Scum, Atta Girl, Big Baby, Colin Thibodeauxx, The Wimps, We Never, and more!
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Noodling emo group Cheyenne release their first record, Champing At The Bit, in 2011, a spirited four-track collection that embodies raw energy, tinged with restless tension and an undeniable sense of urgency, living up to its title with aplomb.
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Prolific hardcore artist Apostles Of Eris releases The Practice Of Learning From Practice in 2013 as well as their split record with Pique in 2020, two releases that deliver a stirring and unapologetic expression of underground rage.
The Practice Of Learning From Practice & Split

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Salient hip-hop producer Profound79 releases Press Play. in 2016, a focused beat tape that captures a nascent curiosity with digital nostalgia, delivering it with a timeless feel and boundless resonance.
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Coldwave vagrant Shattered Mirror releases LOBOTOMY in 2020, a tonally caustic yet rhythmically joyous record that uncovers the unexpected pleasure found within ominous soundscapes.
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Blues heavyweights The Bush League release Can Of Gas & A Match in 2012, a swampy cauldron of Delta blues that blends soul, gospel, funk, and rock, crafting a timeless roots sound that ignites the spirit.
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Rollicking band The Mighty Good Times release their Daikyu demos in 2019, a two-song preview of their roaming rock sound, one that blends carefree energy with bold experimentation.
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Awry soundscaper Brandon Hurtado releases Useless / Weird Resonance on Foil in 2020, a deeply atmospheric record that melds abstract sound with tonal poetry, constructing an intricate web of reflection, tension, and surrealism.
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Neo-classical composer Kate Statelman releases Character Studies in 2022, a moving symphonic suite that delves into common fables and occurrences, blending instrumental wonder with profound melodies that elevate each observation.
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December 10th

Ingenious wordsmith T.R.I.G releases Arthur Ashe Blvd in 2023, an engrossing hip-hop statement of profound loss and radiant triumph set against soulful, vibrant soundscapes, earning a 2024 Newlin Music Prize nomination.
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Spacious folk rock group Landon Elliott And The Goods release The Wildflowers EP in 2016, a piercing record that blends indie flair with roots rock relatability, offering heartfelt melodies and reflective lyricism that resonate with the everyday experience.
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Folk-punk songsters Pedals On Our Pirate Ships release their fourth record, No Bad Blood, on Say-10 Records in 2011,  a bold representation of the band’s irreverent sincerity in its loudest, fullest form, packed with raw energy and infectious hooks.
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Psychedelic garage quartet Plastic Nancy release She’s So Fancy in 2016, a record that drips into the ethereal with a static charge, full of life and spirit, while also contemplating the indescribable through swirling riffs and dreamy atmospheres.
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Blistering punks Mercy Killings release their self-titled record on Beach Impediment Records in 2013, an ear-catching hardcore record that channels that offers six tracks of punishing aggression and unapologetic intensity.
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Ambient visionary cybercrasherstv releases Storm’s Coming in 2022, a haunting, emotionally charged journey through the turbulence of love, loss, and defiance, woven with atmospheric soundscapes that echo a never-ending struggle.
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Glowing underground MC Devo XO release JACKLAGOON in 2021, a kaleidoscopic record full of lyrical sketches and rhythmic exercises, set to a uniquely engaging array of beats and instrumentals.
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Harsh gorenoise duo DEGLOVED release Workplace Accidents on Immorality Crown in 2022, a fully abrasive record that launches an unrelenting aural assault on the senses, pushing beyond mere sonic intensity to explore the raw emotions of anguish and rage at their most visceral.
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Shimmering electronic artisan Elliptical Path release Glass Currents in 2021, a dazzling eight-track record full of ethereal grooves that subtly reveal the melodic intricacies hidden in plain sight.
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Freeform rock trio Voodoo Fishermen release their self-titled record in 2016, a rousing blend of Zappa-inspired compositions and modern genre-blurring, delivering an eclectic and adventurous sonic experience.
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December 9th

Fight Cloud and Houdan The Mystic release Where’s My Shakespeare in 2014, a captivating split that seamlessly blends intricate math rock precision with atmospheric grooves, showcasing two distinct yet complementary approaches to experimental rock.
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Darkwave sprawlers Petrified Entity release their self-titled album on Infinite Mirror in 2022, another mesmerizing chapter of their shadowy narrative, featuring pulsating rhythms, haunting melodies, and an air of immersive unease.
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Hardcore supergroup Heavy Is The Head releases No More Time in 2022, a relentless four-track onslaught that channels the chaos of societal Armageddon through pummeling beatdowns, searing riffs, and commanding vocals.
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Ben FM & Ant The Symbol release Revolver in 2020, a daring hip-hop reimagining of The Beatles’ seminal album, blending inventive reinterpretation with dynamic artistry to provide both a fresh take on a classic and a profound exploration of creative vision.
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Richmond ambient icon VonnBoyd releases Fracture in 2018, a compelling exploration of joy and triumph refracted through the intricate lens of acceptance and strained relief, conveyed in two dynamic and evocative movements.
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Rock die-hards The Waking Hours release The All Mail News Directory in 2017, a spirited rock-and-roll odyssey that, in the band’s own words, journeys through a playful array of “hits, misses, covers, demos, and curios.”
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Textural investigator The Sound Of Machines releases The Narrow Passage in 2019, a haunting instrumental journey crafted from sparse, raw elements, blending shortwave radio transmissions, an out-of-tune piano, and experimental synths.
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One-man jam band Atom Rivers releases Cloud Factory in 2018, a psychedelic-garage fusion record that delivers compact instrumentals, exploring pliant grooves through multiple perspectives and sonic dimensions.
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Indie outfit Miniature Armchair releases I’ll Be By In A Bit in 2019, a modest yet intriguing three-song record that blends punk, alternative, and emo with bold intersectionality, featuring quirky hooks and wandering lyrics that keep the listener engaged.
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Melodic dweller The Overlook releases Together, We Walk in 2017, a genre-blurring record that ponders spirituality and existentialism at the unusual cross-section of synthpop, boom bap, and indie rock.
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December 8th

Captivating folk trio Palmyra releases Belladonna in 2023, a spellbinding record fusing Appalachian roots, lush harmonies, and heartfelt songwriting into a rich portrait of modern Americana.
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Slick producer Ant The Symbol releases Tempus Fugit in 2015, an astonishing hip-hop album that encapsulates the transient essence of musical creation, capturing lightning in a bottle with every rich and sublime track.
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Hip-hop virtuoso O-Z releases On My Life in 2019, a fiery record brimming with ravenous rhymes, sleek bars, and assertive beats, all crafted by an insatiable and industrious musical mind.
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Avant metal duo Among The Rocks And Roots release their third album, Pariah, on Cacophonous Revival Recordings in 2023, a sprawling album that fuses blistering noise, orchestral grandeur, and visceral intensity into an odyssey of polyrhythmic heaviness and symphonic ambition.
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Synthpunk trio GIRLSPIT release their debut record, GIRLSPIT FOREVER, in 2023, a dynamic cauldron of brooding introspection and electrifying energy, delivering infectious beats, sharp lyricism, and an unmistakable sense of rebellious identity.
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Anomalis Radio release Universal Transmissions in 2023, a thrilling escape into deep house revelry that captures the timeless appeal of the spacious grooves and curious hooks.
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Psychedelic sound crafter Reconfiguration releases 5:21 in 2017, a vivid array of drone and ambient soundscapes infused with experimental textures and hypnotic rhythms.
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Pugnacious thrashers The Donalds release Prima Donald in 2014, a roaring album of heavy rage that blends exhilarating chaos with a sharp critique of decaying societal norms.
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Experimental hip-hop artist 38KEA release Mental Weapon in 2020, a textural masterpiece that transcends its avant-garde roots and underground origins with bold genre-blurring and razor-sharp precision.
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Psych-garage rockers ILAD release We Still Gawn Move in 2009, a fascinating album that fuses crafty song structures with vibrant energy and lush melodies for an animated and rousing listening experience.
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December 7th

Mutant Academy luminary Big Kahuna OG releases Kahuna Cartagena in 2018, an eighteen minute encapsulation of the effortless charisma and sharp prowess of the Holly Block resident and Scheme Team mastermind.
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Punk radicals Queer Rocket release Blast Off! in 2013, an unapologetic manifesto of unbridled pleasure and resolute defiance, delivered through timeless, distorted mayhem.
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Hermetic MC One Forever releases UnoVerse: Blue in 2019, a dazzling hip-hop record that delivers weighty bars over dreamy yet gritty production, fostering both sober introspection and thrilling escape.
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Richmond recording institution Sound of Music releases their Demo Reel in 2009, offering a snapshot of the wealth of talent in Virginia’s capital, featuring artists like Carbon Leaf, Cracker, Ki: Theory, Hazy Jane, White Lines, and more!
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Experimental sound stylist GCAT releases Buscemi on New Gary Standard Recordings in 2015, an expansive plunderphonics exploration drenched in reverb, building on a foundation of daring industrial VGM.
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Hard rock outfit Crushing Yellow Sun releases December in 2018, a fiery instrumental acid rock record comprised of recent creations best embodied by the opening track’s title: “Fuzz Hammer.”
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Crafty indie band The Moonbees release Now That’s What I Call Moonbees in 2018, a vibrant fusion of psychedelic garage grooves and offbeat alt-rock flair, delivering a richly textured and delightfully quirky experience.
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Sharp wordsmith King Cotz releases Start Of Something in 2017, a bold mixtape that highlights his lyrical mastery and distinct style, standing as both a confident proclamation and an invitation for collaboration.
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Progressive Americana artist Philip James Murphy Jr releases darkness seen and the sound in between in 2020, a captivating jaunt through rich, rustic soundscapes imbued with an otherworldly, ethereal allure.
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Lo-fi scamps Diamond Hairbrush release Demo​-​lition in 2013, a crackling four-track demo showcasing their unrestrained fusion of garage rock and punk ethos, brimming with irreverent charm.
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December 6th

Colin Phils & Houdan the Mystic release Star Charts in 2017, a mesmerizing split record that showcases the soaring ambition and intricate post-rock and prog-rock soundscapes of each sublime ensemble.
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Dynamic folk musician Saw Black & The Toys release Christmas In The Background on WarHen Records in 2019, a heartfelt roots-driven exploration of holiday wonder, year-end cheer, and winter reflection.
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Prolific producer Sleeping Awake releases Death Club Odyssey in 2012, an arcane journey through interconnected electronic terrains that evoke the sensation of level crawling, with each track blurring the lines between ambient exploration and intricate compositional depth.
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Breakneck punks Memory Loss release Blackout on Vinyl Conflict in 2016, a blistering four-track record that channels 80s hardcore and 90s noise-rock for a stark and visceral examination of despair and disillusionment.
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Technical death tyrants Pyrrhic Salvation release Manifestum I in 2022, a chaotic whirlwind of dissonant riffage, blistering percussion, and guttural intensity that pushes the boundaries of unfiltered death metal.
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Post-hardcore quartet Brief Lives release Weird Energies in 2019, a rough-and-tumble showcase of their blistering sound, blending punk urgency and alternative edge with a potent mix of searing aggression and soaring release.
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Sneering garage trio Brain Drain release Bitch in 2019, a razor-edged, snark-fueled record packed with punk energy and relentless grooves, delivering a gritty, sardonic punch with every track.
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Pulsing punk quartet Lowlife Tea Party (now known as ScanSlow) release Proceed To The Route in 2020, a vivid display of DIY rock that blends the infectious spirit of pop-punk, the raw intensity of post-hardcore, and the electrifying drive of alt-rock.
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Sophisticated Basic (Profound79 x Fan Ran) release Trophy Case in 2015, a sleek collaboration between two seasoned producer/MCs, bonded by a shared love of dusty crate-digging, raw beat craftsmanship, and relentless lyrical fire.
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Halisca & Sheetrock release Halisca And Sheetrock Discover America in 2023, a roaming split record that beautifully embodies the unrestrained spirit of indie rock, blending melodic depth with tonal eccentricities.
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December 5th

Vibrant melodist bien releases Better in 2018, a labyrinthine EP that blends surreal soundscapes, eclectic experimentation, and melodic fragments into a captivating sonic journey full of curiosity and intrigue.
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Distressed noise artist Pain Generator releases Disgusted With Myself in 2014, an imprint of self-disgust over nine fermenting clamors that expose raw, unfiltered emotion through relentless distortion and guttural soundscapes.
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Venturous artist LIL UGLY MANE releases SPILL in 2023, another riveting departure from his expected output that delivers two haunting acoustic reflections, blending melodic introspection with a melancholic, raw atmosphere.
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Diffusive soundscaper Johnny Utterback releases TOTAL CARNAGE in 2016, an ambient suite in six movements that captures the relentless pace of modern life, while unraveling the anguished horror that simmers beneath the surface.
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Experimental rap group Digital Hell release Murderess in 2016, a bold and disorienting exploration of dark, malodorous rhythms and chaotic storytelling, made in tribute to the natives of Aleppo.
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Musing hip-hop artist hernbean5150 releases Memorandum in 2020, an engrossing record that instills a pondering sense of wonder through its measured rhythm and soothing sound design.
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Heavy metal quintet Althaea releases The Waking in 2015, a cerebral djent record that fuses intricate rhythms, haunting melodies, and introspective themes, delivering a dynamic blend of technical mastery and raging depth.
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Audio astronauts Front Porch Revival release Live At Lance’s in 2019, a peculiar hip-hop record inspired by the titular Minimum Wage studios, delivering a rich expression of modern melodic intrigue and experimental complexity.
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Melancholic pop quartet Hill Walkers release Dark Skies in 2016, a jangly album that pierces deeply with its interwoven melodies and lyrics that break through even the most hardened facade.
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Ambient adventurer Grayson Jarvis releases Be In Pieces in 2022, a serene yet emotive album that blends classical influences with indie-electronica to craft introspective soundscapes that offer solace and reflection.
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December 4th

Sound manipulator Subklinik releases their self-titled record on Anti-Everything in 2018, a haunting exploration that uses unsettling spaces and subtle tonal shifts to evoke both awe and dread, while weaving melodic intrigue throughout.
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Incendiary thrashers Carpet Bomb release Waste of Time in 2022, a pummeling assault of relentless riffs and fierce aggression, delivering a no-holds-barred expression of chaos and urgency.
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Soulful quartet The Blue release Corona Blue Sessions in 2021, an emotional immersion that encapsulates the tension of uncertain times with a rich blend of rock, jazz, R&B, and soul.
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Lil Whoadiiee & Ra$cal Grimez release CODE 3 on Holligans Records in 2018, a grimy record that fuses hard-hitting beats with gritty street narratives, delivering an unrelenting energy and raw authenticity.
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Jazz-rock quintet ChillCast release their self-titled album in 2017, a relaxed swing of clever melodic expression that offers both sophistication and accessibility with laid-back grooves full of tricky improvisation.
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Abstract musician ENE release Failed Device Screens in 2012, an eclectic collection of experimental soundscapes, blending ambient meditations, eerie field recordings, and electronic explorations.
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Indie rock five-piece Calvero releases Coup d’état in 2012, a vibrant showcase of musical freedom crafted through a classic guitar, bass, and drums configuration, offering fresh takes on familiar melodies with a creative twist.
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Deep house producer Thumpr releases Root in 2020, a burrowing peer into the infinite depths of creativity, tapping into a well of raw emotion with an experimental edge.
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Lo-fi troubadour Tyler No Longer releases Sad Songs, For Sad Times in 2021, a murmuring Americana record that captures the raw, isolated grief of melancholy through its sharp, modest recording setup and piercing lyrics.
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Masterful MC Charles Diamond releases The Recluse in 2015, an introspective hip-hop album blending classic beats with sharp lyricism, chronicling a four-year journey of self-discovery through narratives of love, pain, and resilience.
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December 3rd

Richmond music pillar DJ Harrison releases Tales From The Old Dominion in 2021, a dazzling distillation of modern genre-blending that crafts a unique sound rooted in jazz wonder, hip-hop grit, and funk spirit, earning a nomination for the inaugural Newlin Music Prize!
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Musical chameleon Todd Herrington releases THINGS in 2013, a bold album that authentically captures the eclecticism of Richmond’s music scene, blending vocal and instrumental compositions into a diverse yet cohesive sound.
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Misanthropic sludge rock duo THUNDERCHIEF releases Synanthrope in 2021, a punishing sonic assault of crust precision and relentless ferocity, uncompromising in its thrashing power.
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Textural electrorock mavens Opin releases Hospital Street II in 2021, a fourteen-minute piece that stitches together improvised live jams born from the creative wellspring of isolation.
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Sleek electronic trio Belly Of The Heart releases Deep In Club in 2021, a bold record that pays respect to 90s and 00s techno and euro-pop while embracing more experimental dance-pop.
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Variegated producer Ethanol releases Mirror Stage in 2021, a reflective album that navigates the complexities of self-identity, memory, and existence, blending introspective lyrics with atmospheric instrumentation.
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Flugabone muser David Dominique releases Ritual in 2013, a free jazz album that showcases a sharp sense of musical humor and a masterful command of complex composition.
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Wry pop punkers Wrist Rocket release their final record, We’re The Best At Quitting, in 2012, a brief yet glorious farewell showcasing their lyrical wit, thematic depth, and melodic charm.
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Electronic artist SEVERED SKIES releases their debut album, The Path Within, in 2016, a burrowing digital excursion into the conflict and turbulence of the inner mind.
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Ukulele connoisseur Stu Kindle releases Stu in 2016, a four-track showcase of the nylon lute’s versatility, offering a fun, laid-back listen filled with charm and wit.
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December 2nd

Grimalkin Records releases their second sampler in 2022, featuring 20 tracks by dynamic queer, trans, BIPOC, & disabled artists, exemplifying the collective’s dedication to amplifying marginalized voices.
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Idiosyncratic indie rockers The Wimps release Pillow And Blankey in 2021, a sublime record full of peculiar melodies and playful energy that offer both levity and comfort amid uncertain times.
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Captivating folk trio Palmyra releases Sill & Glade Sessions in 2022, an intimate three-song record that drops listeners in a spacious, melody-filled haven of musical camaraderie.
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Ann Beretta & Blacklist Royals release their split record, in reCOVERy, in 2022, a four-track split record where the punk bands cover each other’s songs to support the non-profit organization Learn To Cope.
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Progressive improvisation consortium RAIC release their tenth album, Gestalt, on Cacophonous Revival Recordings in 2021, a sprawling journey that blends free jazz, noise, funk, goth rock, avant-garde, and more.
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Hip-hop virtuoso ohbliv release Anima Mundi in 2022, a soothing and mind-opening beat tape that captures the world’s unified essence through musical fascination.
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Dreamy fuzz rockers The Snowy Owls release Christmas Cat in 2016, a holiday and feline themed musical companion to David Lynch’s famed surrealist series.
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Experimental rap group Digital Hell release Pink Siris, Your Immaculate Prison in 2017, an eerie lo-fi beat tape blending pleasing instrumentals with unsettling undercurrents.
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Black metal slashers Appalling release Sacrilege in 2022, a brutal, dark exploration of mental illness, anti-Christian themes, and Satanic indulgence.
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Jo Doja X RocDaddy release The Editing Room in 2014, an ear-popping record featuring slick production and crafty flows that blend musical escapism within profound reflection.
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December 1st

Richmond music pillar DJ Harrison releases A DJ Harrison XMas in 2010, a smooth, festive project that blends his signature funk, hip-hop, and soul sound with a winter twist, offering a fresh take on holiday vibes.
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Death metal behemoths Left Cross releases Chaos Ascension on Vinyl Conflict Records in 2017, a blistering assault that channels old-school aggression and precision, with relentless riffs, crushing rhythms, and fierce vocals.
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Hip-hop virtuoso Bradford Thomas releases Bradventure Seven: The Enigma Zone in 2023, an immersive beat tape that captures the labyrinth wonder of a true musical prodigy, always creating and always evolving.
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Ferocious black metal band Unsacred releases False Light on Forcefield Records in 2014, a volatile display of control that masterfully shifts from groove-driven sections to unrelenting blasts of intensity, delivering an exhilarating and dynamic sonic experience.
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Rootsy folk group Jonathan Vassar And The Badlands release Nothing Ever Was in 2017, a heartfelt yet incisive album that captures the cerebral essence of Americana, seamlessly bridging class and genre boundaries through timeless themes and evocative sounds.
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Crust thrashers Asylum releases Modern Hysteria on Vinyl Conflict Records in 2017, a record thrilling for fans of hardcore punk as well as death metal, inhabiting the bitter ire of both with exhilarating precision.
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Noodling emo group Cheyenne releases Secrets Of The Cheyenne in 2012, a shimmering display of underground artistry that captures the intricate layers of connection and emotional immersion.
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Sublime folk duo Juniper Tree releases their self-titled album in 2023, a dreamy exploration of piercing melodies and tranquil tones that illuminate the deepest emotions held within.
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Doomgaze outfit BREATHS releases Isolera II in 2023, the second installment exploring blackened ambiance with a resonant hum that haunts as well as enthralls.
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Ambient visionary cybercrasherstv releases TGSM in 2023, a harrowing yet captivating 18-minute suite exploring the relentless burden of personal strife, seamlessly reflecting the larger struggles faced by society.
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November 30th

Incandescent musician Nic Perea releases Too Many Days Ahead in 2014, a rich blend of indie charm and evocative lyricism, weaving heartfelt melodies with themes of everyday emotion that capture the dynamic beauty of life.
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Splashy producer GRAYMATTER releases KISSTAPE VOL.1 in 2022, a swirling blend of hip-hop artistry that highlights his pivotal role in the rise of both Mutant Academy & Scheme Team.
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Spiritual musician Alex Mejias releases Kingdom Land in 2018, a soul-infused album blending modern worship music with R&B melodies, featuring a hopeful yet realistic message of unity and faith.
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Darkwave sprawlers Petrified Entity releases their self-titled record in 2018, an enthralling introduction to their shadowy realm of hypnotic rhythms, eerie melodies, and the thrilling tension of immersive dread.
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Alternative hip-hop artist Bedroom Hijinks release Afternoon Tea on Master Hand Records in 2016, a vibrant album brimming with rhythmic finesse & melodic strength, featuring standout features from Alfred., Sha Shakusky, Moses Rockwell, Jake Barkley, & more!
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Art gallery SEDIMENT releases To: Pluto in 2015, a curated compilation inspired by New Horizons, featuring dense, cosmic soundscapes from artists like Toner War, Steve Ashby, Gary Rouzer, and more, delivering an immersive exploration of space and sound.
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Spirited garage rockers Dylans release Warm Spot in 2018, a sharp record that captures DIY ethos through punk, grunge, and indie tracks designed to showcase the power of raw energy and honed melodies.
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Tender singer-songwriter James Tuck releases The Orchid in 2018, an emotive collection of piano-driven confessionals shaped by introspective, somber themes and a poignant vocal tone.
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Dusky rock act Having Keepsake releases Discern in 2018, a brooding rock blend that fuses grunge atmospheres, emo sentiment, post-hardcore intensity, and indie rock structure, creating an emotionally charged soundscape.
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Classical bedroom artist maya liathi releases eat god in 2023, a captivating dual album that showcases symphonic expressionism and indie flair against a backdrop of lush electronic textures and intimate pop sensibilities.
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November 29th

Glowing electropop outfit Heartracer releases In Flight in 2013, a radiant album brimming with lush indie melodies and driving rhythms, creating an exhilarating balance between soaring hooks and dynamic grooves.
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Neo soul soothsayer Zhé Aqueen releases The Hypnomonic Album in 2019, a deeply introspective work of art that intertwines soulful melodies with the intricacies of dream theory and personal spiritual evolution.
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Punk juggernaut Sea Of Storms release their self-titled 7″ in 2012, a bold assertion of riotous expression through three striking tracks that previews the forceful depth impact of their debut album Dead Weight.
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Electro debauchee Stephanie releases Mom Im On Drugs in 2023, an intriguing preview of the evolving soundtrack for an upcoming underground giallo film.
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Dungeon synth artist Magemyrrhyr releases Eternal Kingdom in 2021, an immersive sonic journey that evokes the mystery, excitement, and enchantment of navigating through labyrinthine realms.
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Roving hip-hop artist Jimmy The Loch releases A Cult Following in 2011, a proselytizing record that dissects cultural dogma with fearless curiosity and adventurous lyricism.
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Electroclash artist Nick Storm releases The Young Blood in 2011, a high-energy five-track record that indulges in expansive digital pop landscapes, blending vibrant electronic revelry with meticulously crafted grooves.
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Slick producer Authori-T releases Stuff I’m Working On in 2010, a loosely connected beat tape that flourishes thanks to its savvy and relaxing approach to nu-jazz, trip hop, and alt-hop.
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November 28th

Folk-punk luminary Tim Barry releases Lost & Rootless in 2014, a raw and intimate album recorded in his backyard shed that merges stripped-back acoustic ballads with unvarnished honesty, reflecting his resilient yet complex personal journey.
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Screamo heralds The Exploder release This Sound Starts Right Now in 1997, an intense record of frantic and explosive hardcore that captures the raw energy thriving in the creative underground scene of the ’90s.
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Gossamer revelers June Parker release We’re Exactly Where We Are in 2017, a refined record that blends jangly indie rock with hazy shoegaze elements, showcasing the band’s ever-evolving melodic sensibilities.
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Rhapsodic pop musician Ross Wright releases This Is What I Breathe About in 2013, a personal album filled with heartfelt love notes and calls for self-reflection, showcasing his commitment to appreciating life’s blessings through intimate melodies.
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Vibrant MC 3waySlim releases Bury Me A 3 in 2013, a fierce album that explores city life with a gritty, confrontational energy, blending the harsh realities of heartache and struggle with the allure of fame and the fleeting nature of success.
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A Comp For Kyle is released in 2016, a heartfelt collection of demos, covers, and acoustic sketches from influential emo and punk artists, including Rozwell Kid, Mikey Stough, Jake Clarke, and Oso Oso, honoring an unforgettable figure in the scene.
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Elastic MC Ben FM releases False Modesty in 2022, a distinctive album that blends jazzy hip-hop with soulful energy, weaving irreverent charm through free-flowing beats and punchy lyrics.
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Shimmering prog-rockers Captive release Wanderers in 2018, a daring album that blends expansive, atmospheric soundscapes with modern post-hardcore elements, delivering a lush yet hard-hitting sound.
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Hardcore producer Sofia Lakis releases Formula Front in 2021, a visceral acid techno record that combines primal grooves with alarming tension for an exhilarating listen.
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Lo-fi spinner Scuml°rd releases Go Get Some Rest in 2017, a dazzling beat tape that highlights a sharp, inventive ear for production, complemented by surprise features from Ty Sorrell, Alfred., Heja Rames, Bien, Yogamuffin, and others!
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November 27th

Vivid lo-fi punks Beat Awfuls releases Banana Appeal in 2020, a raw and infectious record that blends wry lyricism with jangly hooks, transforming personal turmoil into gritty, memorable anthems.
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Doom titans Windhand releases Levitation Sessions in 2020, a thunderous live album that captures the troupe’s crushing riffs, haunting atmospheres, and ethereal vocals in full, immersive force.
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Chiptune artisan F1NG3RS releases VGM 3: Wasteland in 2017, a rousing homage to retro gaming that redirects its fury from pixelated foes to the shadows of inner turmoil.
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Prolific hard rock outfit Dead Panda releases The Definitive Collection Vol. 1 in 2020, a raucous blend of punk ferocity and fuzz-drenched stoner riffs, fueled by searing vocals and unrelenting energy.
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Musical wizard Russell Lacy releases Demo Love in 2013, a compelling rock pastiche born and recorded during the creative process of a resurrection album, highlighting the producer’s versatile artistry and boundless creativity.
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Melodic death metal quintet Event Horizon release their debut record, Hell’s Garden, in 2020, a blistering record that fuses razor-sharp technical precision with haunting melodies and searing critiques of religion and imperialism.
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Raucous punks T-Division releases Sic Semper Tyrannis in 2012, an engrossing underground record that delivers screeds of rebellious defiance, blending riotous melodies with scathing lyrics aimed at the political system and societal complacency.
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Prudent emo duo The Slow-Goers releases Introvert​/​Extrovert in 2017, a sharp record that blends raw acoustics with shimmering recordings, capturing the complex duality of social anti-socialites.
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Ambient decayer Twin Aperture releases Rape Of Earth on Anti-Everything in 2018, a haunting experimental record that delves into the sinister murmurs lurking beneath the surface, intensifying within the chaos of a fractured world.
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Alternative maven Ethel Scout releases Emergency Circus in 2018, a captivating record that masterfully builds a swirling mix of agitated energy through raw recordings and restless compositions.
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November 26th

Richmond music pillar DJ Harrison & Friends release Polytoned in 2013, a staggering release featuring the full force of Jellowstone Records with bold jazz, dreamy soul, punchy funk, and inventive hip-hop.
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Crushing noisecore goons Of Want and Misery releases MisanthroEP in 2012, an eight-track barrage that channels their seething cynicism into jagged compositions and unrelenting aggression.
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Industrial death pop project Impulse Control Disorder releases Retroject in 2021, a fusion of electronic textures with raw intensity, delivering a haunting blend of personal reflection and mechanical fury.
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Dream pop specters Mazarine release their self-titled record in 2017, an eight-track journey that uncovers melodic serenity within a captivating blend of lush distortion and measured, flowing rhythms.
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Prog-pop project Zac Hryciak & The Jungle Beat release It’s Not a Big Deal in 2012, an ingenious approach to indie, folk, and rock with complex arrangements and vivid energy.
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Chino Amobi & Johnny Utterback release Live Rehearsal in 2017, a set of improvised recordings that highlight the duo’s inventive synergy, weaving expansive electronic textures that sprawl and fester with intrigue.
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Nat Digga & wpeed release Neighborhood Watch in 2021, a prowling record that showcases a vigilant MC navigating the animated soundscapes crafted by an immersive producer.
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Shrouded electronic act Tunneling releases their self-titled record in 2014, a sonic exploration of life and death through hypnotic soundscapes that culminate in a beckoning seven-minute odyssey.
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Studious MC DeeMize releases Strugglin’ On Purpose in 2013, a vibrant blend of boom bap and conscious hip-hop that highlights the sharp resonance and smooth charisma of underground expression.
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Reclining producer Amzi releases Real Chill Vibes in 2020, a soothing beat tape that invites relaxation and escape with its seamless flow and pleasing sounds.
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November 25th

Pop punk paragons Hold Tight! release their debut record, Can’t Take This Away, in 2010, a seminal record for the underground rock scene in Richmond that delivers a pop-hardcore sound that transcends its basement origins.
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Alt-pop enchanters Blush Face releases Mirage Island in 2022, an ambitious record that shapes indie stylings with daring arrangements, impassioned performances, and resonant expressions.
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Hardcore forefathers Graven Image releases Studio Sessions: 82-83 in 2022 on Beach Impediment Records, a raw and explosive collection that captures the pioneering energy of the genre’s early years and the band’s formative moments.
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Scene advocates Support RVA Music releases A Compilation Of Richmond Musical Acts in 2012, a vibrant snapshot of the early 2010s scene, featuring Close Talker, Cheyenne, New Turks, Houdan The Mystic, Way, Shape, Or Form, and more!
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Hardcore roarers Horrid Peace releases Agony Surronds on Acute Noise Manufacture in 2022, a relentless record of razor-sharp aggression that embodies the gritty, rebellious spirit of raw UK punk.
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Richmond ambient icon VonnBoyd releases Snowfall in 2019, a crackling three-song collection that captures the stillness and majesty of impending snowfall, evoking both wonder and quiet reflection.
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Gloom doom trio Le MORTE releases their demo record in 2020, a crushing fusion of metal, death, and industrial that merges relentless intensity with unsettling rawness.
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Queer punks LEATHERDADDY releases their self-titled record in 2014, a wild garage romp that embodies the untamed spirit of the underground with sprawling chaos and fervent charm.
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Ambient shoegazers Capture Culture release Expansion in 2019, a three-act suite delivered as a seamless track that unfolds over twenty minutes of visceral exploration, evocatively weaving through piercing tones and haunting textures.
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Hardcore punks Reactor 4 release their demo record in 2014, a madcap record presenting a raw and unruly blast of gritty distortion that drives with chaotic riffs and unrelenting rhythms.
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November 24th

Expansive multi-instrumentalist Jeremy D. Simmons releases his debut album, Pie In The Sky, in 2015, a genre-blurring exploration of rhythmic soul, jazz, goth synth, and lush experimental sounds.
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Math metal dignitaries Human Thurma release Savage in 2023, a collection of rare and previously unreleased recordings from 1996 to 1998, capturing the raw intensity and angular creativity that has always defined Richmond’s underground music scene.
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Post-hardcore quartet Brief Lives releases their self-titled record in 2009, a blistering record that threads the needle between art punk and alternative, delivering knotty rage and cathartic release.
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Combustible hip-hop artist The Honorable Sleaze releases Vanity Two in 2014, a sublime beat tape inspired by the purple one’s flamboyant aura and magnetic melodic power.
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Idiosyncratic melodist B. McCormick releases Yearnings in 2014, a uniquely original folk record that captures a distinct personality drifting over warm guitar tones with lyrical grace and narrative freedom.
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Sage hip-hop artist BlackLiq releases NOW Vol 11 in 2019, another roaring record of roaming freestyles, this time loosely inspired by the 1997 film The Devil’s Advocate.
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Experimental rock outfit Asylum 213 releases Southern Homicidality in 2017, a hard-hitting meld of post-hardcore, math rock, and metalcore, combining imposing blast beats with atmospheric pondering for a truly towering sound.
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Sonic revelers Heavy Confetti release The Knockabout And The Dreamer in 2020, an exceptional R&B fusion record that seamlessly blends blues, funk, jazz, and rock into a rousing sound, brimming with energy and soulful flair.
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Lush dreamscaper 秋 releases 共振 in 2020, a hypnagogic record that drifts between ambient textures and droning melodies, resonating with both tangible intimacy and metaphysical wonder.
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String soothsayer Robert Wadsworth releases Reflections in 2019, an enveloping collection of luxuriant instrumentals where guitars and dulcimers trade melodic observations, crafting a serene dialogue inviting tranquil introspection.
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November 23rd

Indie singer-songwriter Joey Cook releases her debut album, Hey, I love you., in 2012, a heartfelt collection of ukulele-driven compositions exploring the complexities of love, connection, and intimacy.
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Running Around Records releases #BernACopy in 2015, a dense 34-track compilation honoring the tenure of the progressive populist, featuring The Weak Days, Padfoot, Beach Slang, Winning The Loser’s Bracket, and more!
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Acid techno producer SPIRAL INSTINCT releases DANCEFLOOR TERRORISM in 2020, a sprawling four-track release showcasing relentless synthesized tweaks and pulsating rhythms that command the club with unyielding intensity.
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Textural rock luminaries From Fragile Seeds releases Where Your Anchors Sleep in 2011, a striking album that confidently channels their playful self-description as “post-post-hardcore pre-post-rock.”
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Experimental drifter Molasses releases Fount of Every Blessing in 2018, an electronic collage born from nostalgic isolation, blending art rock, ambient, and experimental sounds into a layered reckoning of past and present.
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Smooth & soulful MC Segga Spiccoli releases Mid Night On Broad in 2013, capturing the laid-back vibe and vibrant energy of an evening hangout, where fluid bars and slick beats are always welcome.
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Lo-fi wonder We Never releases Big Shiny Red Car in 2017, a fusion of bedroom pop and hazy rock that transcends its humble origins with melodic wonder and sharp musicality.
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Spiritual songstress Emily Roig releases We Are Not Consumed in 2018, a heartfelt six-track record reimagining cherished hymns through her deeply personal vision and soulful resonance.
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Elusive rock act Pleasuremad releases Where The Tragic Happens in 2018, a compelling exploration of self-destruction, disillusionment, and triumph, blending dance-rock, indie pop, and glam into a richly introspective record.
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Resourceful hip-hop artist Metallic Keem releases Maroon Angel in 2015, a personal reflection woven with vibrant beats that melds introspection with an aura of bold, crimson passion.
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November 22nd

Speed thrashers BAT release their debut record, Primitive Age, in 2013, a demo that rivals full-lengths with its raw energy, carnal rage, and commanding power, thrilling and alarming in equal measure.
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Sludge punks New Turks releases Hot Leather in 2013, a heavy-hitting assault of pounding drums and tight, distorted bass that delivers crushing resonance and exhilarating intensity.
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DJ Harrison & SoundGenesis release Black Friday on Reeverb Entertainment in 2012, a smooth, sauntering album that channels the punchy swagger and laid-back vibes of soul-infused jazz-hop.
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High-octane punks NO-HEADS release their self-titled record in 2023, a fierce four-track release blending timeless Oi! melodies and UK82 ethos with a sharp, gritty edge, landing in a place intriguing for punk fans of all varities.
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Intriguing guitarist Alan Good Parker releases Everything’s Normal in 2019, a dynamic mix of timeless standards and polished originals, spanning maudlin musicals to expansive indie rock.
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Shimmering indie rock band Alice And The Reverie release The Way We Go in 2018, a masterful blend of graceful power that plays out through nimble grooves, intricate melodies, and genuine passion.
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Reverential garage duo The Bon Air Electric release Catch A Buzz …Still Buzzed in 2022, a fearless garage rock album forged in the grimy depths of relentless fuzz and unyielding grit that electrifies the senses.
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Visual and sonic craftsman Inherit My Breaking Wind unveils The Day Irony Met A Handlebar Mustache in 2019, a bold instrumental journey navigating angular sub-genres, effortlessly spanning post, prog, and math prefixes with playful precision.
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Dark electro artist Acheleg unveils Counting Cars in 2023, a haunting EBM release weaving festering melodies and sprawling rhythms into a harsh, eerily familiar soundscape.
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Kaleidoscopic artist Yogamuffin releases Conversations in 2023, a captivating hip-hop album radiating vibrant energy in all directions, effortlessly crafted with meticulous precision.
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November 21st

Folk-punk luminary Tim Barry releases his second full-length album, Rivanna Junction, in 2006, a raw and unfiltered collection of Southern-tinged acoustic tracks that capture the grit, heartache, and resilience of his working-class roots.
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Vibrant rock squad The Jim Ivins Band release Back To Reality in 2008, a striking three-song EP showcasing flawless power pop with catchy melodies, tight instrumentation, and sharp vision.
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Proggy garage-psych band HeadlessMantis releases SCUMFY in 2017, a gritty, swampy album that cuts through hallucinogenic haze with distorted intensity and melodic magnetism, ideal for an acid-tinged headbang.
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Acid house producer SPIRAL INSTINCT releases MILITANT HEDONISM [vera53327] in 2020, a relentless dive into dancefloor chaos and militant pleasure, impossible to resist in its intensity.
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Alt-country troupe The Vendors releases The Lake in 2012, a twangy blend of folk charm and bardic flair that capture the pastoral charm of American gothic vignettes.
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Power electronica artist R-COMPLEX releases Overlord in 2022, a turbulent homage to the rise of digital overlords and the inevitable surge of defiant animus that is sure to follow.
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Lo-fi rock quartet Roseanne drops HEDGECOCK on Bad Grrrl Records in 2013, a hazy garage record that captures the essence of melodic and rhythmic intrigue, enhanced by a touch of distortion.
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Electronic dauber syncretist releases Oscillated Incidents in 2023, a reflective soundtrack capturing a decade of creation across evolving workspaces, evoking serene focus amidst the world’s chaotic swirl.
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Experimental manipulator Wheelie releases 夢はミームです in 2015, a record self-described as “vaporshit” that blends vaporwave with noise and “laziness,” creating a distorted electronic realm of tonal exploration.
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Breakcore project Migraine releases 11111111 in 2015, a three-song electronic record featuring grinding rhythms and whirring tones that represents the maximum output of 8 bit expression.
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November 20th

High-octane punks NO-HEADS release Pressure Cracks in 2018, a blistering record that fuses street-punk fury with NWOBHM grit, exploring the unyielding bleakness of an unresolved, tense reality.
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Nautical folk duo The Tide Rose release their self-titled record in 2015, a sublime six-track record that explores haunting emotions and yearning through tender melodies and gorgeous harmonies.
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Scopic rock group Way, Shape, or Form releases Elseware in 2016, a post-rock journey blending indie rock and electronica that offers an angular perspective on today’s fragmented world.
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Cherub Records released their second compilation in 2003, a sixteen-track snapshot of the label’s genre-spanning DIY artists, including A New Dawn Fades, KT, The Cougars, We Are Spies, and more.
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Lustmurder Records releases 4.48 psychosis in 2022, a meticulously curated compilation showcasing the experimental label’s roster, including Richmond artists Jak3, Velmuh, Intercontinental Champ, Elastic Medium, Fm’latghor, and more.
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Dynamic producer The Honorable Sleaze releases Rose Gold in 2012, the culmination of a scarlet EP trilogy that exhilarates with vibrant creativity and daring ingenuity over nine thorny tracks.
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Plunging hardcore punks Downfall releases their demo record in 2017, a raw, explosive four-track EP that encapsulates seething resentment and simmering fury.
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Steve Ashby and Vicki Hallett release The Unsettling Knot in 2020, a collaborative exploration of uncertainty and transformation, blending science, art, and the evolving social landscape shaped by the pandemic.
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Post-rock explorers Claim Culture release their first record, Ceci N’est Pas, in 2013, an evocative textural creation, honoring and inspired by a life cut tragically short.
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No wave duo SCUO releases 5678765 in 2011, an instrumental duet of free-range jazz and art rock that pushes boundaries with chaotic rhythms, dissonant melodies, and avant-garde energy.
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November 19th

Post-rock specialists Labradford releases Mi Media Naranja in 1997, a cinematic and haunting album that blends minimalism with intricate beauty, creating a mesmerizing sonic landscape.
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Sons Of The James (DJ Harrison & Rob Milton) releases Everlasting in 2020, a soulful blend of Hawkins-style Gospel and Soulquarians-branded neo-soul that captures the essence of both classic and contemporary R&B with stunning vision.
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Richmond sonic visionary Tennishu releases Three Sides on Subflora in 2021, a fiery record brimming with insight and soul, blending funk, hip-hop, and jazz into an inescapable sound.
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Bristly pop punk group The Haverchucks release their self-titled record in 2013, a raw encapsulation of punk’s enduring power, channeling disdain for modern life with sharp guitars and relentless rhythms.
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Evocative rock group indoor/indoor release suburban lakes in 2016, a sublime record that grounds the lush world of atmospheric rock and clears the haze of shoegaze to deliver a direct breath of pop-driven guitar rock.
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Striking hyperpop artist pink limb releases MANIC PIXIE GENDER NIGHTMARE in 2021, an audacious album that seizes attention and never relents with its melodic pull and tonal disarray.
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Grubby punks Skumboyz release Underage Thinking in 2018, a hardcore thrash record that unleashes simmering rage across thirteen ferocious tracks, biting at the edges of chaos for rancorous relief.
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Forceful hip-hop artist N. Talekt releases I’m Not Like You in 2013, a resolute album that cuts through the noise of the world, honing in on life’s rhythmic essence with unwavering intent.
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Funk fusers KOCO releases Doggy Style in 2014, an irresistible mix of Memphis soul, groove rock, and smooth jazz crafted by a tight-knit ensemble radiating dynamic musical joy.
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Pelagic folk artist Henry Haggard releases Songs Of The Sea in 2022, a soothing collection of melodies crafted to inspire courage and foster community amid a fracturing world.
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November 18th

Post-punk harbingers True Body release Temple Of Song in 2022, a shadowy wall of sound shaped into compelling tracks that balance the thundering alarm of melody with the tense intimacy of introspection.
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Rhapsodic pop musician Ross Wright releases his fourth solo album, Athens, in 2014, an electro-pop reimagining of a hymn celebrating divine existence through vibrant arrangements and irresistible melodies.
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Venturous hip-hop artist LIL UGLY MANE releases REDACTED FOG in 2022, a sharp yet sensational detour where the mercurial artist lays down loose grooves as a foundation for his lo-fi ruminations.
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Synth-pop stylist Coaches release TRUE CONNECTiON in 2022, a flowing symphony of melodic allure and rhythmic curiosity that resonates on a visceral level and awakens vibrant introspection.
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Musical sentry Voyeur releases Little Death in 2013, a piercing exploration of the innate tension between wonder and alarm at the melodic heart of life’s enduring cycle.
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Ingenious producer Tanook33 releases Gaze Of The Cormorant Vol. 1: The Brown Capes Saga in 2022, an immersive soundtrack to an unrealized anime featuring lo-fi and boom bap grooves, distinctive voices, and vivid, cinematic storytelling.
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Digital explorer dogwalker releases goin home in 2021, a chiptune accompaniment for an idyllic vacation through a scenic 8-bit valley, framed by inspiring pixelated mountains.
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Art gallery SEDIMENT releases Electronic Instrument Building Workshop in 2017, a collection of recordings from a workshop helmed by Dana Ollestad and Claire Zitzow, showcasing DIY instrument creation and avant-garde performance.
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November 17th

Musical gurus Butcher Brown release Live At Vagabond in 2017, a hometown performance captured with striking precision, radiating the electrifying energy of live music from this astonishing ensemble.
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Melodic nurturer Keilan Creech releases Honey Waits in 2017, a dreamy indie folk record full of resonant consolation and lyrical comfort that gently explores themes of longing, hope, and introspection.
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Musical alchemist Curt Sydnor releases Air Ride Equipped in 2023, a genre-blending album that combines traditional melodies, forgotten texts, and bold new compositions, guiding listeners from egoistic isolation to spiritual unity.
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Piercing freak folk band Wester Green release Black Creek in 2017, a delicately layered blend of lush textures, fluid melodies, arcane emotion, and wispy charm.
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Stirring singer-songwriter Mackenzie Record releases her debut album, Mother Tongue, in 2016, a poignant blend of country and folk tracks that craft intricate stories of heartache and redemption.
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Samuel Goff, Camila Nebbia, & Patrick Shiroishi release Diminished Borders on Cacophonous Revival Recordings in 2023, a chaotic free jazz record from a percussive and saxophone trio that invites you to tear down the walls of order.
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Barking punks Arrogants release their demo record on Core Strength in 2023, a raw hardcore record delivered with authoritative precision, snidely sneering at the norms of conformity.
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Hardcore gamblers Coin Toss release their demo record on Core Strength in 2023, a rumbling burst of melodic disarray sharpened into an irresistible punk sound.
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Evocative folk act Luray release Sandcastle Man in 2015, a vibrant showcase of rustic charm woven through two enveloping tracks and a slyly inventive remix.
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Potent pop punkers 40 Reps release Heads Up on Say-10 Records in 2023, a high-energy burst of melodic defiance infused with gruff insight and driving focus.
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November 16th

Indie folk-rock legends Carbon Leaf releases Christmas Child in 2010, a sparkling album full of holiday magic and winter charm that offers a crisp, heartfelt reflection on year’s end.
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Sonic luminary Trey Pollard releases Antiphone on Spacebomb Records in 2018, a modern classical masterpiece, blending lush strings with minimalist compositions and showcasing innovative orchestration and artistic emotional precision.
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Gritty rock supergroup Axehandle release their self-titled album in 2004, a hard-hitting rock mélange that delivers a primal sound driven by thundering rhythms and bellowing cries.
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Dexterous MC Young Flexico releases FLEXIDOZA in 2021, a four-track collaboration with Jersey producer GRIMM Doza, offering a compelling glimpse into a sharp, lyrical mind.
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Idiosyncratic trio Basmati releases BAZ in 2014, a brazen rock album that effortlessly explores a range of sub-genres with surprising flair and thrilling spontaneity.
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Acoustic blues duo Sleepy Eyed Jay & Chicago Slim release their self-titled album in 2009, a nine-track record from The Bush League delivering originals and standards with soulful simplicity.
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Heartland stompers Matt Monta & The Haymakers release Motion in 2016, a vibrant Americana album blending diverse styles and tempos, offering a comforting fusion of rootsy aesthetics and modern sensibility.
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Experimental rap group Digital Hell release Bled (Perfect Recess) in 2016, a six-track beat tape that as direct as it can be from the awry melodic minds behind this absorbing outfit.
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Sonic craftsman Fargon releases Solstice II: Songs For The Sun in 2020, a sublime album rich in textures, ideal for sparking creativity and fostering relaxation.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beatdown punks SLAAT release their demo recordings in 2022, a five-track thrashing affair that captures their intense sound in its raw, unfiltered form.
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November 15th

Riverbank troupe Cassidy Snider & The Wranglers release A Good Heartbreak in 2022, a captivating album that traverses diverse roots music styles with dynamic flair, earning a nomination for the 2023 Newlin Music Prize!
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Post-punk agitators Blood Ponies release Hoax in 2019, a brooding exploration of cynicism and anxiety across ten ominous, unforgettable tracks that forge a unique blend of classic melancholy and contemporary rage.
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Hard psych-rock band Mister Earthbound release their debut full-length album, Shadow Work, in 2022, an immersive record drenched in a dense, viscous sound that oozes sharp talent and captivating allure.
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Darkwave voyagers Lost Tribe release The Dawn in 2010, an enveloping album brimming with atmospheric doom and strikingly dark melodies, initially available as a ten-track cassette and previewed online with three tracks.
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Divergent MC James Dangle releases One Time I Knew on Just Plain Sounds in 2011, a slick underground album balancing head-nodding beats with thought-provoking reflections.
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Caustic Agent and Relief release their split record in 2022, a definitive showcase of VAHC with eight tracks delivering relentless intensity that captures the frenzy of punk expression.
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Urban ridge troubadour Luke Saunders releases Green To Golden Brown on Church Hill Records in 2009, an authentic folk rock record that boldly embodies the timeless appeal of true Americana.
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Noisy hoodlums Little Master release their self-titled record in 2011, a fuzzy rock record that dives headfirst into the roots of alternative with melodic aplomb, all while thumbing their noses at the law.
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Sound fermenter Tommy Birchett releases toothpick in 2003, a captivating exercise in tonal manipulation and melodic decay that blurs the boundaries between structure and entropy.
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Starwishr & Tyriek Lee release Savannah Uncanny in 2020, a shimmering dream pop album that carves a distinct identity through the haze of shoegaze and the limitless potential of bedroom recordings.
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November 14th

Stoner doom behemoths Lord By Fire release Relics in 2010, a burly record featuring sludgy rhythms and sawing riffs that churn with festering intensity.
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Suffused rock band Autocue releases Epilogue in 2009, a sidewinding alternative record that blends intricate melodies with emotional depth, exploring the fractured intensity of contemporary life.
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Seamless MC akaLUTHER releases Lakeside in 2019, a smooth, fluid hip-hop album that exudes effortless skill and cohesive energy across seven mellow yet bumping tracks.
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Blazing rock ensemble Sidechick release their self-titled album in 2020, a dynamic blend of soulful melodies and electrifying arrangements that fuses Southern soul with modern rock in a thrilling flourish.
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Ambient dweller Elliptical Path releases Resonant Topography in 2022, an expressive exploration of organic beauty and digital wonder, blurring boundaries between nature and technology.
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Musical chameleon Yellowbelly releases their self-titled album in 2015, a roving record that embraces a wide range of influences, with sounds shifting from reggae jams to lo-fi singalongs.
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Reclusive drone artist Loneliness released loneliness (of mine) in 2016, an unfiltered expression of melancholy conveyed through three instrumental pastiches that both dishearten and inspire.
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Clamoring punk project Nothing Sexual. releases regrets, among others. in 2011, a lo-fi thrash EP spanning six terse tracks that capture their raw, festering rage and irascible charm.
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Rock gazer Opposite Comet releases Slipcast in 2020, a two-song record that thrives in the distorted haze of early alternative splendor, defining its amorphous pull and accentuating its sharp beauty.
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Sound experimenter bean bags releases wips in 2017, an amorphous beat tape that shifts and reshapes within each unique soundscape, offering immersive rhythms and enveloping tones.
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November 13th

Pink Siifu & Fly Anakin release FlySiifu’s in 2020, a striking record that brings together two industrious rappers with dynamic rapport, delivering 22 tracks of captivating energy and raw lyricism.
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Math rock outfit Clair Morgan releases No Notes in 2012, a fusion of impressionism and expressionism that features an adventrous sense of melody and rhythm, embodying the essence of a bold musical journey.
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The Charles Owens Trio releases A Day With Us in 2015, a fluid jazz collection featuring the titular saxophonist, Andrew Randazzo, and Devonne Harris, recorded during a single-session at the generative Jellowstone studio.
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Dreamy fuzz rockers The Snowy Owls release Within Yr Reach in 2012, a textured exploration of tone and meaning, where the melodic core doesn’t fade into hazy layers but instead navigates through them, creating clarity and catharsis.
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Tweegazer Ringfinger releases Decimal in 2007, a sprawling exploration of melodic intrigue, marking the culmination of a decade’s journey and positioning itself uniquely between the revered works of Dahlia Seed, Positive No, and Outer World.
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Alt-pop duo No Moniker release their second record, All Things Excellent, in 2015, a dynamic blend of melodic expression that effortlessly shifts across styles and genres with restless charm.
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Bedroom pop beacon Jane Migraine releases Lighthouse in 2020, an intimate record that stirs the repressed and recondite emotions of connection with grace, comfort, and poise.
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Metalcore quintet Seasons release Inner Ruin in 2019, a raw yet aspiring album that blends powerful blast beats and guttural roars with a melodic undercurrent full of promise.
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Synth duo Liam & Maya release Seclusion in 2021, an alliterative album asserting adroit arias with a dizzying direction dancing daringly.
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Indie multi-instrumentalist Trout Baseline releases (a)round in 2020, a vibrant synth pop record that blends crafty melodies with reflective lyrics, creating a seamless fusion of electronic textures and personal expression.
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November 12th

Post-rock specialists Labradford releases their self-titled album in 1996, a brooding journey through layered soundscapes that animates haunting atmospheres with a deft and impish touch.
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Resonant wordsmith Michael Millions releases Beautiful in 2015, an affirming work of art that encapsulates the bright promise of honing one’s craft to its fullest potential while still striving for more in life.
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Folk-punk luminary Tim Barry releases Live 2018 in 2020, a collection of recordings from two nights of his annual “November Fest” that captures an honest portrayal of his stirring sound.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rhapsodic MC Illa Styles releases Unauthorized Biography Of Cam G in 2013, an eleven-track narrative capturing the journey of a man striving to do right amid challenging circumstances, revealing him as a true product of his environment.
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Art rock scholars V.E. (Various Eggs) releases Don’t Expect Much From Others on Mending Wall Records in 2013, an ambitious album that connects diverse genres with a spirit of radical exploration, discovering common threads while building their own unique soundscape.
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Luxuriant deep house producer Jame Moorfield releases That Thing You Love in 2021, a rich electronic record with a cavernous allure, exploring the nuanced line between catharsis and escape in a world that aims to blend them.
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Emo alternatives Suntitle releases In A Dream in 2021, a piercing album that creates a unique sense of affiliation, propelled by a bold embrace of punk and indie, resulting in powerful and expansive compositions.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Enthralling singer-songwriter Rachel Epp releases Rosary in 2010, a soaring five-track record driven by heartfelt lyrics and melodic precision, finding meaning in both the grand and subtle moments of life, with each guiding her music with clarity and insight.
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Charged punk band Winning The Loser’s Bracket releases Leftovers on Running Around Records in 2013, a high-energy album that effortlessly races through pop punk, emo, hardcore, and indie with exuberance and flair.
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Writhing hardcore quartet Nosebleed release their demo record in 2015, an arresting three-song snapshot of their explosive sound that rumbles with ferocity and barks with defiance.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

November 11th

Folk-punk luminary Tim Barry releases Carolina’s RV in 2022, a concise yet evocative collection of outtakes & traditional songs that shaped & inspired the sound of his 2022 album, Spring Hill.
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Musical mastermind Charles Owens releases Golden Moments in 2022, a stirring excursion into popular music that remolds cherished songs through the intricate artistry of jazz.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Combustible hip-hop artist The Honorable Sleaze releases I’m Alive in 2016, a dynamic beat tape that captures the fluid landscape of life with tracks suited for any occasion.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Avant-garde artisans tire x silver release rabblerouser in 2022, an amorphous two-part suite blending skewed string impressions, field recordings, and digital experiments for a striking glimpse into melodic intrigue.
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Feathery singer-songwriter Elle Christine releases Elle in 2023, an exquisite collection of stirring compositions that drift along with profound emotional depth and rich melodic resonance.
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Transformative hip-hop artist iD Jeter releases [i.D.]entity: Return Of The Free in 2021 and Reasonings Live in 2023, two powerful records that foster spiritual strength and offer melodic comfort in the face of societal challenges.
[i.D.]entity: Return of the Free & Reasonings Live

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Experimental outfit hankychief release funnel in 2018, a dense fifty-track (!!!) record that presents electronic dalliances and avant-garde declarations with intriguing poise.
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Staunch fuzz rockers Dead Panda release Demos 2019 in 2019, a nine-track preview of their upcoming output that shows the swampy germination of their craggy hard rock stomps.
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Avant folk project Perpetual Novena releases I Will Eat You In Heaven in 2021, a three-song lo-fi glimpse into rusting Americana that glows with rustic promise while crackling with modern realism.
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Electronic degenerate Head Molt releases Mass Mind Overscum in 2009, a two-part movement blending piercing digital squeals with brooding techno-roars, each more unsettling than the last.
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November 10th

Conquering war metal unit Left Cross releases Upon Desecrated Altars in 2023, a ferocious barrage of unrelenting blast beats and menacing riffs that embodies the brutal intensity of conflict and oblivion.
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Pop designer Benét releases Game Over: Reloaded in 2021, a reimagining of their striking 2021 album featuring inventive remixes of each of the four irresistible tracks.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hardcore revenant Richmond Vampire releases I’ve Done My Time In The Sun in 2023, a slashing punk record that unleashes seething anarchy over a liberating thrash of distortion.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Candra Rini / Hopkins / Clark / McGraw release Swarasa on Out Of Your Heads Records in 2023, the seventh entry in the Untamed series, bringing a fully mixed and mastered May performance to fans faster than traditional recording timelines.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Post-hardcore seers Eaves release their debut album, As Deeply As You Do, in 2017, a textural treasure that crafts cathartic tension and thrilling resonance for an exhilarating experience.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exploratory heavy rock band Asylum 213 release November Blood in 2018, a stunning fusion of metal and indie influences that lets melodic intrigue shine through each track, whether thunderously powerful or subtly piercing.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stirring five-piece Road Kill Roy release their second full-length album, portmanteau, in 2017, a sublime fusion of pop-infused Americana that soars with hopeful promise and stretches wide with communal joy.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Enthralling rock trio Nancy Raygun release WASTED in 2022, a split record blending infectious psych-garage with acoustic indie rock, highlighting the band’s skill in melodic crafting and sonic intrigue.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grungegaze group Wallpaper release Spokes in 2022, a sharp-edged album that layers angst over a hazy, noisy backdrop, redefining the essence of distorted clamor.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shifty electronic artist Kjell Anderson releases RONALD in 2020, a digital whirlwind of samples and soundscapes that defies style and genre, moving boldly through rhythm alone.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

November 9th

Metal icons GWAR releases their twelfth album, Bloody Pit Of Horror, in 2010, a relentless record that showcases the band at one of its heaviest, with a sneering intensity that drives the chugging rhythms and distorted slashes even further.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Punk crusaders Smoke Or Fire release The Speakeasy in 2010, an uncompromising exploration of the intersection between politics and identity, driven forward by the signature distorted roar of dissident rock.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Delicate melodist addy releases Rose Eyes in 2018, a captivating rhapsody that contrasts the hidden depths within each song, revealing genuine beauty from a place of fractured introspection.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sweeping singer-songwriter Eliza Juno releases Turing Test in 2017, a powerful album of twenty tracks that explores themes of trauma and agency with a resilient, hopeful edge.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dynamic group Honest Debts releases No Beauty Lost in 2018, a fluid rock record that flows through Americana, blues, Southern, Heartland, and alternative rock styles with infectious charm and talent.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Noise punkers Large Margin release their self-titled album in 2018, an audacious record that turns discord and chaos into its own melody and rhythm, pushing the boundaries of familiar alternative sounds.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Noisegrind legends Suppression releases Rats In The Control Room on Chaotic Noise Productions in 2015, a blistering, twenty-three-track eruption that embodies the raw ferocity of the underground.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Musing indie rockers Spandrel release their self-titled record in 2013, a warm yet piercing album that offers comforting sounds laced with a pensive intensity.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Peculiar and mercurial act Charger Port release Separation Of Church And Hate in 2018, a spastic six-track record that provides a mesmerizing glimpse into the realm of underground melodic experimentation.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ruminative rock band The J.O.B. release Highway Of Shadows in 2018, a sleek rock record with hints of Americana that explores its roots of conflict and displacement with poise and grace.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

November 8th

Resident music scribe Andrew Cothern releases RVA Playlist: Stories From The Richmond, Virginia Music Scene in 2022, a collection of tales and insights that provide a vivid portrait of the city’s vibrant music community.
Amazon

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sensational electropop ensemble Lobby Boy releases their debut record, Lore!, in 2019, a dynamic six-track record that displays an affecting melodic core as well as a manic groove imagination.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Slick producer Ant The Symbol releases The What?! on Gritty City Records in 2019, a electric hip-hop tapestry of ingenious beats and crafty samples brought to life by an all-star cast of bold lyricists.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rootsy folk musician Jonathan Vassar releases Mis•cel•la•ne•a in 2021, a piercing collection of stray recordings tethered by their rich fusion of emotion and melody in both sparse and lush spaces.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Conscious hip-hop artist God Goldin releases Peace God : Goldito in 2020, a colossal record that pushed a bold lyrical flow into a deep reservoir of sonic adventure.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Visionary songwriter Sara Bouchard releases Songs Of Lewis & Clark in 2008, a daring record that brings the words of the famed continental explorers to harmonic life in a poignant and vivid manner.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diligent mixer DJ Mentos releases The Maxell Tapes Volume 1 in 2019, a collection of beats from his Sway In The Morning performance that showcases his soulful creativity and keen innovation.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Melody master Scott Brookman releases Smellicopter 2 in 2017, a bright showcase of clever songwriting and pop sensibilities that carry the torch of his musical artistry with finesse and charm.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deep house explorer Don Chirashi releases Raphine in 2023, a journey through isolated discovery spread across four evocative soundscapes filled with tense adventure and melodic allure.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Electronic soothsayer Southwaves releases Control in 2016, a digital meditation of serene soundscapes and hypnotic rhythms polished with rich vocal calls.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

November 7th

Sonic maestro Andrew Rohlk releases Lost & Found in 2018, a soaring record that beautifully blends pop accessibility with jazz progressions to transcend genre boundaries with melodic ease.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dizzying Richmond supergroup Snacktruck releases Spacial Findings 1-7 on Rorschach Records in 2009, an adventurous record from members of Ultra Dolphins, VCR, & Brainworms that captures the bright mania of emo, hardcore, and post-rock.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ambient rocker mr.arrison releases warmbient in 1998, a cinematic soundscape of alternative pleasure that favors grounded expansion over upward yearning, enhancing the senses and fortifying emotions.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effusive electronic envoy Wafers 3D releases Purgatorio in 2017, an agile and spry vaporwave record that uses a broad musical palate to varnish its textural beauties.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Experimental project wdrr releases Firenza in 2020, a vibrant digital abstraction of emotional chimes that playfully distill a cacophony of moods and sensations.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jangly garage rockers Rubber Dagger release Corner Store in 2022, an uproarious collection of tunes that will electrifying your eardrums with punk flair.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proud Southside MC Daddy Ratchet releases Fuck Ratchet Ric 2 in 2016, a deep nineteen track hip-hop record offering lyrical insight into a burgeoning life journey.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hazy rockers Late Night Cable release Say Heaven in 2020, a fluttering record that drifts between dashing dream pop and shifty garage rock with harmonic resonance.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dark purveyors Hold Me Down releases Below The Sky, A Faceless Mass in 2022, an ominous, hour-long instrumental journey divided into two movements, blending exercises, field recordings, and other experimental elements.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lithesome producer GORDYMICHAEL releases sketchbook in 2014, a warm and dusky 26-track beat tape that captures the melodic spark of harmonious creation in its raw, distilled essence.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

November 6th

Metal icons GWAR release their eighth album, Violence Has Arrived, in 2001, a ferocious onslaught of sonic brutality that solidified their claim to daring hard rock provocateurs.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Local musical showcase Woman Crush Wednesday hosts its first-ever event in 2019 with Rebekah Rafferty, Errol Bateman, and Rachel Epp, laying a sturdy foundation for inclusive fellowship among unique artists, organized by the inspirational Bri Bevan.
Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Charity organization Ice Cream Social Party releases .NET 1.5 in 2020, a fundraising compilation for queer & trans Black artists, Peters Place RVA, & Transgender Needle Exchange that featured Ty Sorrell, DAZEASES, The Hunting Dog , and more!
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Prog-psych dynamos Ten Pound Snail release their debut EP, Sunspots, in 2020, an expansive dive into the psyche of a fearless trio exploring the melodic depths of peculiar songwriting.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Imposing instrumentalist Scott Clark releases Bury My Heart in 2015, an ambitious musical work that delves into the haunting history of native genocide with thoughtful care and exacting precision.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunny artisan Ty Sorrell releases The Fall Selection in 2020, a collection of sly hip-hop songs that captures the essence of the harvest season, offering a warm and inviting musical experience.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pummeling hardcore knaves Hard Stripes release their self-titled debut record via Grave Mistake and Vinyl Conflict in 2013, an uncompromising auditory assault that leaves listeners battered, invigorated, and hungry for more.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Crafty production duo Index Sanji and Archangel releases Tephra Re: (Loaded) in 2020, a genre-defying exploration of electronic dance music that transcends conventional boundaries to deliver a sonically diverse experience.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exuberant electronic composer Altered Form releases The Spectral Path in 2020, a sprawling digital voyage, lavish in its sparse beauty & bleak in its effusive deliberation.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Noise rhapsodist Coteries releases Oris Circumcisio in 2020, a gritty record that swaps vocal inflection over warm grooves for frothing bubbling through caustic soundscapes.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

November 5th


Punk legends Avail release their sixth album, Front Porch Stories, in 2002, a melodic torrent of rock genres impelled by a staunch rebellious spirit that’s true to form while still being adventurous and daring.

Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Chamber prog-pop group My Darling Fury release Licking Wounds in 2013, a lavish sonic labyrinth where technical skill and emotional clarity help guide the path to the marvelous melodic heart.

Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Elegiac math rockers Fight Cloud releases Simple Structures in 2013, an album that blends emotional intricacy with technical wonder to deliver an emotive sonic journey.

Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Sonorous singer-songwriter Dean Fields releases Everything Just Happened The Way That It Happened in 2008, a candid and unfiltered exploration of the delicate equilibrium between optimism and pessimism that comes with following one’s heart.

Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Experimental rock outfit Asylum 213 releases Decadence in 2016, a bold twenty-three track record that swirls around a roaring hardcore sound that’s illuminated with mathy post-rock runs and ambient texturing.

Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Boom bap soothsayer NDEFRU releases Bonfire in 2021, a hearty five-track exhibit of lyrical finesse that directs a bevy of warm samples and nodding beats.

Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Black metal quartet Hoboknife releases Vagrants in 2015, a blistering record that plunges listeners into a maelstrom of sonic darkness and frenetic energy.

Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Blazing MC RezonDaDawn releases Almost Home in 2017, a surging seven-track joint that ignites earbuds with fiery lyricism and beats that hit like a sonic sledgehammer.

Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


秋 (Guinevere Laurent) releases 親しい in 2022, a effusive electronica album that drifts alongside vaporwave spaces while finding its own unique emotional core.

Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Polished MC IsBalu releases Believe(Me) in 2018, a collection of vibrant hip-hop sketches that combine to make a sweeping tapestry of eclectic sounds and emotions.

Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

November 4th

Folk-punk luminary Tim Barry releases Manchester in 2008, a rich album that showcases his storytelling prowess and introspective songwriting with compelling melodies and heartfelt lyrics.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Punk innovators Ultra Dolphins release Mar in 2006, an album that embraces fearless creativity within the defiant punk style while pushing the boundaries of the genre.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Plucky pop-punk band Sundials release Kick in 2014, a vigorous collection of hefty hooks and bouncing basslines that bolster a quirky and infectious sound.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hip-hop virtuoso Bradford Thomas releases Healthy Shenanigans in 2021, a homey beat tape comprised of crafty loops filled with creative musical finesse aimed at thriving in a challenging world.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Experimental hip-hop artist 38kea releases More Seeds? Take The Seeds! in 2021 and Keeper in 2022, two venturous records that move through bold soundscapes and sprawling beats with punk poise and avant-garde drive.
More Seeds? Take The Seeds! & Keeper

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Electronic provocateur Fucking Fucks releases Rip It To My Fucking Face in 2018, a manic digital foray into a chaotic realm of sound and audacious experimentation.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Scab Addict and Oozing Meat release their split tape on Chaotic Noise Productions in 2019, a sonic discharge of noisy convulsion packed into two roaring tracks.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reverberating post-punk trio Ette Eko release Modern Content in 2022, an immersive two-track EP that delves into pensive groove exploration with hypnotic riffs and evocative riffs.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Experimental post-punks Bermuda Triangles release Poisonous Entity on Chaotic Noise Productions in 2022, a striking fusion of outsider sub-genres that layers the raw intensity of noise and grind music with an addictive rhythm.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tenebrous melodic rockers Private Cry release their self-titled album in 2023, a collection of unreleased demos and a 2017 WRIR live session that encapsulates the captivating essence of this short-lived yet remarkable band.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

November 3rd

Insurgent MC DuctTape Jesus releases Chester Skate Land in 2023, a fresh take on alternative hip-hop that skillfully blends diverse influences and experiences, earning a 2024 Newlin Music Prize nomination.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Richmond ska-punk legends Muphy’s Kids releases The Anthemic Pandemic in 2011, an infectious showcase of their signature sound that propels listeners into a whirlwind of punchy rhythms, leaving no room for still feet.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Darkwave voyagers Lost Tribe releases Solace in 2014, a gripping sonic journey through ominous goth rock and pulsating post-punk housed within a haunting realm of melodic darkness and artistic despair.
Spotify

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Crafty punk band Cloak/Dagger releases Lost Art in 2009, a blazing record that dumps melodic gasoline onto the smoldering fire of their punk ethos, igniting a ferocious musical inferno.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Piercing quartet Long Arms release Young Life in 2017, an album that exudes the joy of rock ‘n roll with a sound molded by punk foundations and refined by pop-rock finesse.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diligent mixer DJ Mentos releases The Maxell Tapes Volume 2 in 2020, a set of mellow beats that exude smooth soul and musical delight.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Melodic rock charmers Horsehead release their fourth album, Sympathetic Vibrations, in 2012, a captivating collection of songs that display their mastery of blending affecting lyrics with indelible hooks.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dynamic folk musician Saw Black releases his third full-length album, Signal, in 2023, a personal journey through recording and songwriting that reflects on the complexities of relationships against the vast backdrop of Virginia.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Art rock innovators V.E. release Five Four Girls on Mending Wall Records in 2023, a daring three-song EP that explores provocative themes and unconventional viewpoints for a distinctly original sound.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Psych-folk ensemble Blackwood Station release their self-titled album in 2023, an intriguing take on Americana that explores the emotional depths of roots music through eight inviting tracks.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

November 2nd

Melodic mastermind Calvin Presents releases Dream in 2018, a dazzling presentation of progressive soul music that’s strengthened by technical skill and empowered by boundless imagination.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Doom titans Windhand release Live Elsewhere in 2019, a remarkable capture of their stunning sound, taken from a 2018 performance in Brooklyn, NY.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Searing rock band Wine & Warpaint release their debut record, Homeless, in 2018, a dynamic four-track EP that skillfully fuses post-hardcore, emo, and alternative elements to craft compelling hooks and affecting melodies.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deep house wayfarer Jame Moorfield releases The Gaze in 2018, an electronic suite broken out into four bustling movements that display the visceral wonder of the spacious genre.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Folk grunge ensemble Haints In The Holler releases Skin & Bones in 2013, a sweeping record that contains wistful reflections and striking discoveries housed within that adds new color to the classic Americana landscape.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vibrant producer Profound79 releases Raw Talent. in 2014, a twenty-track beat tape that displays an ever-changing sonic backdrop that continually running through an industrious and bountiful mind.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Striking hyperpop artist Pink Limb releases their second album, Disaster, in 2020, an amalgamation of infectious bubblegum and frenetic electronica that overloads the auditory senses with melodic distress and chaotic joy.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lithesome producer GORDYMICHAEL releases GumSoul in 2015, a laid-back beat tape perfect for autumn strolls, with breezy jazz-infused beats that enhance the atmosphere.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shrouded beatmaker Keg releases their self-titled record in 2021, a terse three-song EP that showcases mercurial ingenuity contained within brisk snapshots.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Elastic improvisational collective Rainbow Soulfood releases Sea Of Tranquility in 2022, an extensive eighteen-track overview of their spontaneous melodic explorations that yield fetching tunes and jams.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

November 1st

Indie folk rock legends Carbon Leaf releases their third album, Ether-Electrified Porch Music, in 1999, a defining entry into their remarkable catalog that showcases their perceptive musicianship & profound lyricism.
Spotify

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Goth calypso quartet Apocowlypso release their debut album, Meat the Apocowlypso, in 1987, a collection of folk-punk energy born that features local legends Brooke Saunders & Dika Newlin, the namesake for the Newlin Music Prize.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cherub Records releases CH030: 15 Years Of Cherub Records in 2016, a 40 track (!!!) overview of their illustrious catalog that spans from raw rock & dream pop to free-form improv & avant-garde electronica.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spacious singer-songwriter Landon Elliotttt releases Domino on American Paradox in 2019, an expansive musical tapestry that is tethered to a unique identity, one that’s examined with astute emotional depth.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Valiant wordsmith Illa Styles releases A Quarter ‘Til A Mil in 2019, an extensive representation of an overflowing melodic mind always improving, evolving, & refining an already imposing sound.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pop provocateur Trapcry releases Dangerous on Quiet Year Records in 2020, a bold & layered musical work that celebrates radical honesty & explores themes of sexuality, identity, & politics.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Death metal tokers Cannabis Corpse release their sixth album, Nug So Vile, in 2019, a blast of chunky & speedy songs that double-down on their irresistible, thrash-infused sound with gleeful intensity.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Prog-rock six-piece Majjin Boo releases Go Between on @egghuntrecords in 2019, a captivating musical sojourn that explores the interplay of various influences, musical & spiritual, that leaves a powerful impression.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hearty folk musician Tristan Dougherty releases his full-length debut, Roaring & Wild, in 2023, a meditative album blending fingerstyle guitar, warm lyrics, and slick arrangements into a fresh sound rooted in indie and classic Americana.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Holistic duo Pressed Orchid releases Velvet Confessional on Brilliant Corners Records in 2020, an ambient pop adventure inspired by the Rodin Museum that beautifully refines the spiritual genre.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

October 31st

Rosewood Recordings release Rosewood Demos II in 2021, a remarkable compilation that offers a vibrant snapshot of the Richmond scene with songs by thirty-four (!!!) unique musicians, including Ty Sorrell, Ten Pound Snail, Lobby Boy, DuctTape Jesus, Catie Lausten, Castalia, Palmyra, Bien, Billy Capricorn, The Octavias, Coy Pond, and more!
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Snappy & snotty punk band Talk Me Off releases their self-titled debut record in 2017, a tremendous record that polishes and refines classic skate punk and nardcore into a modern melodic punk proclamation.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Enterprising MC OG ILLA releases Illegal in 2018 and Richmond Renegade in 2020, two plush hip-hop offerings of razor-sharp lyricism and mellow rhythms, fused into a a melodic, punchy experience.
Richmond Renegade & Illegal

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thrash giants Bleach Everything release All Alone In Dirt in 2023, a sharp, relentless barrage of pounding rhythms and eerie soundscapes, perfectly crafted for the spectral season.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hip-hop virtuoso Ohbliv releases Sunsets in 2012, a radiant beam of sampling brilliance that brightens the auditory landscape with soulful, groove-filled instrumentals.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Straight-edge collective The Verdict releases Hostis Humani Generis in 2018, a gruff six-track onslaught of hardcore intensity that rouses and mobilizes with unrelenting power.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lo-fi garage standouts Shawnis And The Shimmers release their debut record, Shimmer Shake, in 2022, a rollicking three song record that delivers a fun mix of fuzzy grit and melodic bite, bursting with irreverent charm.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ambient artificer Chroma Forma releases Between Worlds in 2023, a synthesized wonderland replete with modular brilliance and electronic ingenunity, unfolding across thirteen mesmerizing soundscapes.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hazy psych-rock band Caterpillar Trap release their debut record, The Hamlet, in 2017, a genre-blending journey that dashes through funk, post-punk, and art rock, reveling in its bold and ambitious scope.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Electro-psych duo Honeyguide release their debut record, Mutualism, in 2019, a captivating work that enchants with melodic charm, playfully veiled by intricate electronic layers and immersive soundscapes.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

October 30th

Textural electrorock mavens Opin releases Media & Memory on WarHen Records in 2020, a sublime sonic odyssey that pushes melodic boundaries, leaving listeners in awe of its sonic complexity and emotional depth.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Umbral doom metal group Lair releases their self-titled album in 2019, a slow patrol of blackened sonic landscapes that envelop the listener in a shroud of haunting darkness and relentless heaviness.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cataclysmic sludge band Druglord releases Motherfucker Rising in 2012, a potent sonic brew that intoxicates with its sludgy riffs, ruthless force, and uncompromising approach to stoner and doom metal.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NOAH-O x $KRILL release STREETZ OF RAGE in 2017, a brawling EP that contrasts the strife and turmoil of Wood Oak City with Virginia’s beloved capital.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Enthralling rock trio Nancy Raygun release their debut record, Late Nights, in 2020, an exuberant four-song EP filled with infectious grooves and canny melodies, offering a fuzzy musical escape from everyday life.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Snazzy hip-hop whiz Versace Chachi releases Dear Richmond in 2012, a bold mixtape that showcases sharp lyrical flows weaving through choice beats and pulsating rhythms.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Hustle Season releases Volume 1 in 2020, a vibrant blend of genres from Reggie Pace, Gabriel Santamaria, James Seretis, and Kelli Strawbridge, capturing the expansive energy of the titular podcast.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sylvan singer-songwriter Jordan Tarrant releases Lazarus in 2013, a warm six-track trek through modern Americana that combines sincere and shrewd lyricism with rich and soulful melodies.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Avant-garde musical project Airport releases Poor. in 2020, a twenty-three minute medley of wry electronic textures, incisive punk, and lo-fi reflection that rebukes traditional genres in sake of musical reinvention.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Melodic hardcore rockers Bon Jovial release We Ask For Safety in 2018, a galvanizing two-song EP that emphasizes the need for common sense gun control in a world void of action and reason. Sadly more relevant now than six years ago.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

October 29th

Hot-rod Americana quintet The Wilson Springs Hotel release their self-titled debut album in 2021, a rollicking romp through inventive bluegrass, vintage country, and indie folk that invites listeners to dance and reflect on the beauty of life’s simple moments.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Crafty indie band The Moonbees release Money Grows On Trees in 2013, a dashing record that combines spacious folk jaunts with airy pop melodies and radiant rock harmonies.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Metal marvels Vorator releases Italic Raids in 2016, a five-track display of thrash theatrics, death dexterity, and ripping resolution.
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Suppression & Flvx Capacitor release their split tape on Chaotic Noise Productions in 2018, a thirty-seven (!!!) track deluge of noise and grind that shatters sonic boundaries and tests the limits of auditory endurance.
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Noisy recording project Half In releases Frozen Out in 2011, a gritty lo-fi album that channels controlled chaos to embody the raw spirit of alternative rebellion.
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Electronic auteur PERMANENT releases MUSEUM AO in 2022, an intense industrial exploration of harsh minimalism crafted entirely through a single multi-effects pedal for a raw, impactful sound.
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Chirpy MC Face Tatt releases Low Water in 2018, a resolute and unapologetic hip-hop declaration that provides a hook of raw authenticity and curious lyricism.
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Psych-grunge group Sadartha releases Sad Art in 2021, a burrowing rock record that bounds off its garage foundation with a blend of biting melodies and crunchy riffs.
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Grimy beatmaker Moe Sample releases Moe In The Dark in 2021, an intriguing collection of sludgy instrumentals that meld irreverent samples into pleasing grooves.
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Esoteric producer Sub-Versatile releases Universal Knowledge in 2012, a diffusive instrumental journey through spiritual existentialism that immerses listeners in a bountiful realm of hip-hop & electrofunk.
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October 28th

Gripping rock quartet Denali releases The Instinct in 2003, a record that stretches out of their trip hardcore sound to deliver an intricate and impassioned musical treasure.
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Fuzz rock resonator DAZY releases OUTOFBODY in 2022, a sonorous exploration of self-assured and cathartic rock that pays homage to the power of music in navigating life’s complexities.
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Progressive pop ensemble Spooky Cool releases Existential Pie in 2022, a rich ethereal collection of enchanting textures, intricate soundscapes, and cunning melodies that was nominated for the 2023 Newlin Music Prize!
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Hip hop virtuoso Ohbliv releases New Black Renaissance (Side A) in 2011, an immersive testament to the power and depth of instrumental vision, embodying a hopeful future and a rich present.
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Experimental project Discrepants releases Beginnings on Cacophonous Revival in 2022, a genre-blurring combination of relaxing imagination and chaotic ambition stretched across twelve brash tracks.
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Idiosyncratic punk rockers Brainworms release Which Is Worse on Rorschach Records in 2006, a compilation of the hardcore outfit’s first two recordings, a 2005 live performance and a 2006 studio recording, which displays their striking, spunky, and stout sound.
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Sage hip-hop artist BlackLiq releases NOW Vol 10 (subtitle Blackliqcula) in 2019, a bold assortment of spontaneous freestyles broadcasted alongside HipHop Henry that enhances the industrious MC’s rich catalog.
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Venturous hip-hop artist Shawn Kemp aka LIL UGLY MANE releases softwehr in 2010, an expansive beat tape that explores jazzy and wavy grooves, even touching down on the nascent vaporwave genre.
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Entrancing post-hardcore project Borrowed Spirit releases Overgrown in 2015, a stunning evolution of Comrades’ bold sound, powered by Laura Ann Reitzel’s melodic intensity and vibrant passion.
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Crafty indie band The Moonbees release Ready For The Shit in 2014, a genre-blending frenzy that fuses psychedelic garage jams with quirky alternative twists for a richly layered, eclectic sound.
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October 27th

Eclectic indie-pop auteur Wild Nothing releases Hold in 2023, a sublime record that embarks on a quest for bliss and clarity in a fractured world, guided by a newfound sense of purpose.
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Shoegaze wonders Bright Arc releases Disappear Into The Light in 2023, a hazy triumph that blends melodic will and noisy distress into something truly breathtaking and remarkable.
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Chance Fischer x Kleph Dollaz release Passport To Nowhere in 2011, a collaborative triumph that delves into themes of ambition and success with crafty bars and sleek beats.
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Richmond music pillar DJ Harrison releases Slyish in 2016, a rich lo-fi tribute to the funk family leader that distills his legendary sound into a contemporary sonic moment.
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Pop punk scouts We Call This Courage release their self-titled album in 2017, a refreshing take on the punchy genre that focuses on urgent tracks, impactful lyrics, and moments of ambition that elevate their music beyond conventional catchiness.
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No Wave collective Recapitated release their self-titled album in 2021, a melodic push from the sonic calamity of the Chaotic Noise Productions label that excites with unconventional charm and echoing clout.
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Crafty hip-hop artist Sap Evans releases Black Dog Serenade in 2021, a stretching mixtape that showcases wiry lyrical talent across seven dashing tracks.
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Sly singer-songwriter Brett Jones releases Weight in 2016, a sublimely produced three-song EP that allows his melodic prowess to shine and his lyrical poise to resonant.
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Lo-fi artificer Eric Godsey releases The Spooky Time Radio Hour in 2018, a classic Halloween mixtape that will bring up memories of mid-century spectral charm while still sounding fresh and new.
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Electronic voyager Sunrizen releases Overgrowth in 2016, a seven-track dip into the bubbling medley of futurebass and deep house, offering plenty of filling melodic hunks of dubstep and trap.
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October 26th

Indie supergroup Boygenius release their debut EP in 2018, a seminal record exploring the musical chemistry between three striking artists that delivers unforgettable songs with poignant lyrics & evocative melodies.
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Metal icons GWAR release their ninth album, War Party, in 2004, a thrashing addition to their crimson-stained catalog, showcasing their enduring talent for precise & focused musical barrages.
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Sludge giants Cough release Ritual Abuse in 2010, a colossal & oppressive sonic experience that plunges the listener into a nightmarish abyss that’s immersive & hypnotic.
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Venturous hip-hop artist LIL UGLY MANE releases The Weeping Worm in 2014, a trippy four track spread of a free-flowing melodic mind that features errant deviations & one remarkable feature.
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Hip-hop grinders Johnny Ciggs & Poe Mack release Decadence on Gritty City Records in 2018, a collection spanning a six-year collaborative period that yields bumping beats & piercing bars.
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VCU organization The Hornreleases its second compilation in 2012, featuring prominent local musicians Sundials, Navi, Humungus, Herro Sugar, Comrades, Way, Shape Or Form, & more!
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Hip hop virtuoso Ohbliv releases LewseJoints The Seventh One Pt. 1 & 2 in 2018, a dual release split into a bumping beat trek & a relaxing groove session, each superbly balanced & contrasted by the legendary producer.
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Glowing electropop outfit Heartracer releases Eat Your Heart Out in 2016, a yearning & affectionate five-track record that features their shining melodies & captivating grooves.
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Searing rock band Sleave releases All These Songs Are About You in 2023, a four-track exploration of how narrative-influenced perspectives shape our experience of fractured beauty in a fleeting world.
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Frenzied garage quintet Nightcreature releases On The Loose in 2018, an electrifying blend of raw garage energy, & punk influences packaged within in a concise yet rewarding four-track record.
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October 25th

Hip-hop legend Mad Skillz releases The World Needs More Skillz in 2010, a striking display of lasting talent and lyrical excellence, solidifying his illustrious legacy.
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Adroit folk rock group Blue Line Highway releases Nothing Lasts Forever in 2012, an extensive eighteen-track album that delves into profound themes and musical artistry with a bold fusion of Americana and alternative.
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Enterprising MC OG ILLA releases ELITE in 2021, delivering an immersive hip-hop album that seamlessly blends a sharp lyrical flow with laid-back beats, creating a harmonious melodic experience.
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Hip-hop virtuoso ohbliv releases Foreverness in 2017, a unifying beat tape that encapsulates cosmic energy into its rich soundscape.
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Lively folk ensemble Dharma Bombs release Live on WRIR in 2016, a snapshot of their swinging and scratching sound that brings Appalachian fun into the modern age.
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Soulful funk producer Goblin Shaman releases To Be Is To Be Perceived in 2010, a twenty-two track instrumental tape that weaves expressive grooves into the listener’s consciousness.
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Ambient wanderer Erik Phillips releases Six Songs in 2015, a brisk record that views grandiose ambient compositions through the lens of concise bedroom pop.
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Electronic groover Sittasines releases Threefold Vol. 2 in 2014, a twelve-track digital dance journey through bright tones, inviting melodies, and wavy rhythmic flows.
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Malignant goregrind project Degloved releases Smoking Can Cause A Slow And Painful Death on Immorality Crown in 2023, a corrosive release that oozes decay, delivering ten relentless tracks packed with festering intensity.
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Diffusive soundscaper Johnny Utterback releases The Builder soundtrack in 2019, providing an ambient musical backdrop to the documentary’s exploration of Richmond’s vibrant art scene and cultural interconnections.
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October 24th

Metal icons GWAR release their fifth album, Ragnarök, in 1995, one of the most diverse records in their bizarre discography, showcasing a wide range of styles and themes that refine the band’s awry direction.
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Progressive folk group Sun V Set releases Curious Wave in 2023, an ethereal and tonally enchanting record that electrifies with innovative flair, earning a nomination for the 2024 Newlin Music Prize!
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Sunny artisan Ty Sorrell releases At God’s House on @citruscityy Records in 2019, a distinctive blend of hip-hop and alternative sounds that showcases unique melodic vision and memorable artistic flair.
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Garage punk duo The Glares release Or Are They Imaginary in 2023, an ear-catching romp through distorted reverly that never misses its mark across ten bold songs.
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Clever indie quartet Soft Catch release Sea Fear in 2023, a pensive yet lively four track record that encourages balancing being in the moment with reflection, rather than getting lost in either.
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Anti-folk resonator Scumbag Kalat releases You Don’t Have To Stay Here, But You Can’t Go Home in 2020, a piercing album that pays homage to the beat spirit with stripped-down performances aiming for connection and solace.
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Sound tinkerer Dog Whistle releases their self-titled album in 2020, a glitchy overture split into two twenty-minute pieces that intricately detail a gurgling and fermenting soundscape.
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Indie bluegrass ensemble Itchy Hearts unveil Goodbye Goodnight in 2010, an album that combines Appalachian strings with alternative gumption to deliver a heartfelt expression of musical independence.
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Starry MC Jo Casino releases Cloud Browse in 2011, a lustrous hip-hop album that brightly showcases lyrical nerve and artistic depth across eleven bold tracks.
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Multi-instrumentalist Ian Evans releases Fal 2017 in 2017, a captivating collection of seven displaced grooves that rumble, shake, and shuffle with masterful intrigue.
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October 23rd

Darkwave outfit Shadow Age release The Fall in 2017, a hypnotic and cavernous record that juxtaposes bleak desperation with the tantalizing promise of something brighter.
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Pop punk band Hold Tight release I Always Leave But Never Say Goodbye in 2014, a punchy record that delivers raucous and spirited songs veering into fuzzy garage territory.
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Gourmet groove producer Kjell Anderson releases Full Manifest in 2013, an expansive eighteen-track homage to New York City that serves as a vivid tour guide woven into a jazz-infused beat tape.
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Sounds Of RVA releases the Auto-Ween! mixtape through RVA Magazine in 2012, a ten-track evocation of darkly autumn sounds featuring Windhand, Navi, Lost Tribe, The Honorable Sleaze, Pedals On Our Pirate Ships, and more!
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Worship organization Urban Doxology release their self-titled record in 2014, a vibrant blend of diverse and inclusive sounds that embodies their mission of fostering reconciliation through shared experiences and music.
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Folk virtuosos Mason Brothers release their third album, Ivy In The Orange Grove, in 2012, a captivating reflection of musical versatility that seamlessly transitions between rootsy ballads and lush anthems.
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Blazing MC RezonDaDawn releases Rivertown in 2020, an atmospheric album that conjures the feeling of late-night strolls down Broad Street, blending the sounds of jazz, soul, and rap that fill the air.
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Debarking & Digital Hell release their split tape in 2018, a striking release that fuses crusty grindcore with gritty experimental hip-hop, resulting in an uncompromising and unique package.
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Screamo rouges Humanitarian Deficit release their demo tape in 2022, delivering a blistering ten-minute medley of unrelenting hardcore intensity performed with technical tenacity.
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Emo-tinged punks Mayfair release Summer Sampler in 2010, a five-track teaser that showcased their energetic and fiery sound, with many tracks later appearing on their 2013 self-titled album.
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October 22nd

Luminous melodist Abby Huston releases AH HA on Egghunt Records in 2021, an affecting pop record that utilizes flourishes of jazz, R&B, & hip-hop to create a vibrant work of art.
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Southern metal super group Birds Of Prey release Sulfur And Semen in 2007, a blend of punk urgency, metal mastery, and gothic rumbling that creates a heavy, loud, and utterly filthy musical experience.
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Intricate and shadowy performer P.T. Burnem releases Imaginary Album #0 in 2021, an ambient exercise that peers into the reserved core of a bustling sonic mind.
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Breezy folk artist Elton Wong releases Direct Input (To My Heart) in 2021, an effortlessly tranquil album that emanates serenity through its smooth rhythms and warm melodies.
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Sly producer Bricolage releases See You After Dark on @softgritrecordings in 2022, a conceptual album of plunderphonic tracks that exist in the vivid, hazy space between beat tapes and sound collages.
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Sonic distorter Ivy Snyder releases Disovelle in 2023, an electronic array of unsettling tones, rhythms, and harmonies that mirrors the experience of facing one’s own inner turmoil.
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Imaginative beatmaker Stryf Sonik releases Risen in 2017, a seventeen-track odyssey that far extends the limits of a beat tape to deliver a profound instrumental experience.
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Snarling crossover rogues Old Gods Defied release their demo recording in 2018, a three-song preview of their fierce metal and punk fusion.
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Dreampop designer Energy 2000 releases Maximum Overdrive in 2015, an instrumental chillwave album inspired by meteorological phenomena, capturing the intrigue of our planet’s complex and shifting nature.
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Lo-fi cutup Coyote Call releases Random Jamz in 2019, a flippant three-song EP (including a memorable Nicktoon cover) that showcases sharp musical wit and fetching charm.
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October 21st

Resonant punk band Strawberry Moon releases Habitual Creatures in 2022, a gripping and invigorating record that explores thorny reflection through sprawling post-punk grooves.
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Musical gurus Butcher Brown release their debut album, All Purpose Music, in 2014, a brilliant musical pilgrimage through funk, jazz, and soul, all expertly performed with unparalleled skill and artistry.
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Imaginative artisan Matthew E. White releases Outer Face in 2013, a bountiful five-track EP that condenses his expansive musical vision into a focused, stripped-down exploration.
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Intriguing brooding trio Rah Bras delivers Ruy Blas in 2001, an engrossing blend of haunting melodies and innovative compositions that lands in the quirky center of post-punk and indie rock.
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Dynamic hip-hop artist Chance Fischer releases The Lucky Libra in 2010, a showcase of dexterous lyrical flow that travels from soulful observation to punchy assertion.
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Renowned arranger and performer Bryan Hooten releases Richmond Love Call in 2011, a magnetic assortment of sliding brass compositions and improvisation, executed with precision and vitality.
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Genre defying ensemble Big No releases Ummm Nah in 2015, an audacious record that seamlessly blends darkwave pop with atmospheric indie rock, delivering an astounding musical experience.
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Striking hyperpop artist Pink Limb releases Cigarette Lipstick in 2022, a turbulent record that embraces the maximalist aesthetic with an awry melodic sense.
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Electronic artist Gardener releases Keep The Candles Lit in 2019, an auditory journey that delves into swirling textures and introspective evaluation.
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Sonic manipulatuor Zombietron releases Appetites & Impulses in 2011, a nine-track album packed with experimental looping and sampling that challenges traditional flow and genre boundaries.
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October 20th

Metal icons GWAR release their fourteenth album, The Blood Of Gods, in 2017, their first with Blöthar the Berserker after the passing of Oderus Urungus that proudly carries on the shock thrash tradition.
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Incisive singer-songwriter Righter released Bad Art in 2023, a profound album that blends vulnerable introspection with passionate melodies to foster a sense of relief and growth, earning a nomination for the 2024 Newlin Music Prize!
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Skilled duo Holy River release Courage in 2020, a moving piece of musical artistry that takes listeners on a profound journey of self-discovery and transformation.
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Hip-hop virtuoso Ohbliv releases Rugged Tranquility in 2009, the first full-length beat tape in his illustrious catalog that captivates listeners with its stirring instrumentals.
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Post-punk pop stylists Positive No release Partners In The Wild in 2017, an ingenious record that finds solace in unity amid chaos through intense and emotional musical depth.
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Mutant Academy luminary Big Kahuna OG releases How To Mob, Vol. 1 in 2020, an impressive beat tape that invites listeners to dive into its rich, dynamic layers of sound.
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Minimalist folk explorers Lean Year release their self-titled debut album in 2017, a haunting and evocative collection of songs that mesmerize with their delicate melodies and introspective lyrics.
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Ingenious musician Pete Curry releases Night Logic in 2016, a plush synth-pop record that embodies blazing melodic aesthetics and begins the rise of FM Skyline.
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Mottled psych-pop artist Dhemo releases To Be In Reverse in 2020, an enthralling exploration of genre bending grooves and melodies that shine with kaleidoscopic brilliance.
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Folk-rock phenoms Jeremy White & The Blue Hearts release Classic American Sins in 2015, a collection of humble compositions characterized by gritty, captivating vocals and understated technical finesse.
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October 19th

Darkwave prophets Unmaker release Firmament in 2018, a genre-bending marvel that surprises with its mesmerizing ambience, poignant darkness, and creative brilliance.
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Beach Impediment Records releases the L’Amour compilation, Look To The Artist: 1978-1981, in 2018, offering a clear snapshot of first-wave punk’s impact and resonance within Virginia’s capital.
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Versatile musical ensemble Mekong Xpress releases Common Knowledge in 2018, an invigorating blend of funk, soul, and rock that highlights the seasoned group’s flexibility and cohesion.
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Beatmaking collective Just Plain Sounds releases Weekends In Latveria in 2012, an staggering tribute to MF Doom with contributions from Ant The Symbol, The Honorable Sleaze, Drano, BlackLiq, Rah Scrilla, & more!
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Unconventional jazz composer Adam Hopkins releases Crickets on Out Of Your Head Records in 2018, a whirlwind of captivating compositions performed with powerful conviction and daring creativity.
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Dynamic producer The Honorable Sleaze releases Smell The Roses in 2011, the first installment of a three-part EP series that ignites the senses with sharp artistry and bold vision.
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Canny punk quintet Sick Bags releases Only The Young Die Good in 2019, a sensational six-track record that delivers infectious punk anthems with a blend of energy and irreverence.
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Crossover thrashers Fuck You Scalper release We Skate in 2022, a rumbling affair that blends the relentless energy of thrash metal with the rebellious spirit of punk.
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The Spacebomb House Band release Library Music III: For The Sun And Waters in 2018, a bountiful collection of ear-tickling grooves and beats primed for sampling from the minds of four ingenious instrumentalists.
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Divine Council mastermind Lord Linco releases Unlit in 2013, a grimy yet piercing hip-hop wonder that boasts lyrical prowess and melodic charm.
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October 18th

Stirring singer-songwriter Mackenzie Roark releases Rollin’ High, Feelin’ Low in 2022, a rich Americana album exploring sweet melodic joy in deep somber reflections that was nominated for the 2023 Newlin Music Prize!
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The Cheap Fest IV compilation is released in 2013, a forty-one (!!!) track showcase of the experimental electronic three-day festival at Strange Matter.
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Dexterous indie pop quartet Camp Howard releases Cañón in 2019, a dazzling record that offers multilingual resonance across glistening melodies that jangle and groove with infectious moxie.
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Progressive improvisation consortium RAIC releases Il Delirio E La Mortalità Di Amore in 2017, an album they describe as a collection of “odds and ends” that showcases the group at various stages of their creative evolution, all along a shared sonic journey.
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Folk-rock resonator Andy Jenkins releases The Garden Opens in 2019, an enveloping four-track release that serves as an exercise in hope derived from optimistic impulses.
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Breakneck rockers RPG releases Worth The Weight in 2008, a dashing record that distills the most energetic and melodic moments from hard rock, metal, punk, garage, and alternative.
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Electronic degenerate Head Molt releases Piss Majik in 2018, a jarring re-release of the 2014 record that concluded the sprawling and decaying Piss Trilogy on Chaotic Noise Productions.
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Electroacoustic collective Ceremonial Scissors release their self-titled album in 2017, a striking array of avant-garde sketches molded into thirteen awry compositions.
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Resonant folk artist Ray Woodruff releases With The Rain in 2023, a sublime collection of fingerstyle melodies and heartfelt stories that captures the immersive charm and timeless appeal of a true singer-songwriter.
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Husky singer-songwriter Black Cat Crosses releases Sadness & The Song in 2018, a resonant five-song record that lands in welcoming folk-punk territory with its incisive perception and gritty sound.
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October 17th


Musical gurus Butcher Brown release GrownFolk in 2015, a collection of rhythmic beats and sonic mastery that cover soulful relaxations and funky grooves.

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Hand To Mouth Tapes release their first compilation in 2015, an eight-track smattering of the label’s spacious sound, featuring Prayer Group, Fat Spirit, Night Idea, and more!

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Swirling hip-hop artist BLACK KRAY release 700 DAGREEZ in 2001, a shadowy collection of compositions that carry spectral allure while delivering aching beats.

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Straight-edge insurgents Break Away releases For Life in 2011, a searing hardcore record that ignites unyielding energy and fervent convictions across five brash tracks.

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Dexterous MC Young Flexico releases Foolish in 2023, a striking exploration of hip-hop’s duality that’s packed with sharp lyricism and hard-hitting beats, all flowing in a seamless groove.

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Jangly rock band The Silent Boys release Roadside Flowers in 2015, an indie pop revelation showcasing their melodic prowess and musical finesse.

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Experimental rap group Digital Hell releases Tequila Mockingbird in 2016, a sonic assortment tailor-made for the seasonal blues, embracing the essence of autumnal bliss.

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Progressive saxophone and drum duo GORRAK release their self-titled album in 2019, a groove-laden exploration of avant-garde realms that captivates with its inventive perception.

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Downbeat hardcore outfit Caustic Agent releases Spiritual Warfare in 2021, a relentless sonic experience that confronts earbuds with rabid energy and fuzzy intensity.

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Sound sculptor Ask The Trees release The Hearts Message Cannot be Delivered In Words in 2019, a free jazz improvisation broken out into six movements highlighted by mercurial saxophone sounds that impress and excite.

Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

October 16th

Hip-hop rock powerhouse Photosynthesizers release their debut record, Speakers In Black Holes, in 2010, a commanding collection of songs, written and recorded in a single summer, that perfectly exemplifies the group’s signature “tronic soulschool hip hop” sound.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Dynamic pair Monday Night & Heather Grey release drop Soon You’ll Understand in 2022, an enthralling hip-hop wonder brimming with skillful artistry and smooth energy that was nominated for the 2022 Newlin Music Prize!
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fuzz punks Hoax Hunters releases Clickbait on Cherub Records in 2015, a blistering seven-track album that deserves its own listicle of reasons for its alternative brilliance.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edge Of Daybreak release Eyes Of Love in 2015, a reissue of the 1979 album recorded by inmates at the Powhatan Correctional Center that captures the soulful resilience and musical brilliance of a band defying constraints.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Expressive quintet Vanilla Summit releases Green Session EP in 2017, a captivating collection of soulful instrumentals (and one frenetic track featuring @freemckinley) that swirl around hip-hop aesthetics with groovy rhythms and jazzy vibes.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Poised neo-soul collective E 33rd releases their self-titled album in 2021, a smooth and sophisticated collection of tracks that seamlessly blend R&B and jazz influences, delivering a soulful and immersive listening experience.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Luxuriant deep house producer Jame Moorfield releases Stabathon EP in 2020, a skillful three-song set that creates an inviting a sonic atmosphere full of rich tones and resonant grooves.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exquisite singer-songwriter Kate Bollinger releases Key West in 2017, a radiant indie pop snapshot composed of five distinct and moving tracks that observe, admire, and draw inspiration from her surroundings.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Peculiar & mercurial act Charger Port releases Kamikaze, Quasimodo in 2020, a fuzzy fusion of noise pop and math rock that sharply defines the energetic sparks flying from these dynamic genre combinations.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sound designer Chris Carlson releases Flock 2 // BG.10.18 in 2018, an ambitious and arresting two-movement electronic suite built around Borderlands Granular, a mobile application designed for gestural control of granular synthesis.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

October 15th

Goth seers Vehemence Realized release Severe in 1999, a striking album that blends neo-folk with darkwave, delivering an intense resonance and showcasing inventive craftsmanship.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ingenious melodist Angelica Garcia releases Echo Eléctrico in 2021, a daring and inventive reimagining of folk classics that was nominated for the inaugural Newlin Music Prize.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Striking hardcore trio Love Roses release Stubborn Future in 2021, an energetic collection that polishes their propulsive blend of first-wave anarchy and awry post-hardcore.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Textural rock beauts Lone Collective release Endless Nights in 2022, a glistening record that captures a beautifully layered sound directed by incisive lyricism.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Local poet laureate Roscoe Burnems releases Stares From the Overpass in 2010, a rousing collection that displays his profound poetry within piercing acapella echoes and vivid hip-hop grooves.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Experimental recording project Archeology release Newest in 2023, a bold album brimming with melodic intrigue, elevated by ethereal vocals and a dynamic range.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dark punk outfit Magnus Lush release their demo tape in 2015, a five song sample of their compelling sound that was recorded live-to-tape by Bryan Walthall at Gallery5 days before release.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dream pop wanderers Elysium On 37th release My Darling Heliotrope in 2012, an immersive experience centered on the cross-section of shoegaze, post-punk, and post-rock.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Slowcore connoisseurs Alice Blue releases Darker Leanings in 2021, a penetrating expedition into melancholy introspection with thrilling sonic depth.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shrouded ambient producer Cecilia releases Vesper on Moreau in 2015, a droning sprawl spread across two length compositions that imparts a feeling of curious dread.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

October 14th

Sharp metal troupe Inter Arma release The Cavern in 2014, a relentless and uncompromising journey through their experimental sound that boasts intricate and mature musicality.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Genuine country rockers Wrinkle Neck Mules release Entierro in 2015, a compilation of their digital-only song series honoring deceased musicians whose music shaped the band’s vibrant sound.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hip-hop virtuoso Ohbliv releases Lewse Joints VI in 2017, a bountiful beat tape comprised of nodding pause loops and refined raw sketches that exemplify a distinct production prowess.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Black metal corrupters Plaguefever release Crude Implements in 2021, a commanding six-track release characterized by an unyielding, swift, and grimy sonic atmosphere.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Crafty jazz composer Taylor Barnett releases Two Quartets: 2 For One in 2019, a display of harmonic beauty and balanced contrast housed within ten gallant compositions.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Robust MC Tru Nyce releases Tha In Crowd in 2010, a packed hip-hop album showcasing the talented wordsmith exchanging bars with a diverse lineup of artists, all in sync with the record’s groove and energy.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Psych-tinged folk rock band Tinnarose releases My Pleasure Has Returned in 2016, a vibrant blend of 1970s rock infused with modern flair and timeless clarity.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Anomalis Radio release the Dear World Compilation in 2022, an exciting collection of electronic grooves from a bevy of DJs exploring house, lo-fi, techno, disco, and even world music.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rippling rock band Goodnight Daniel releases There Might Be Time in 2022, a piercing scan of introspective lyricism and dynamic instrumentations, showcasing a stirring musical depth.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Atmospheric rock ensemble Shapes In The Water release Acedia in 2021, a shimmering soundscape of ambient beauty and musical craftsmanship enhanced by piercing lyricism.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

October 13th

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Piercing punk rockers Doll Baby release Hell Block on Egghunt Records in 2017, a bold record that intertwines classic alternative vibes with modern-day noise, creating a stirring sonic experience that captivates from start to finish.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Post rockers Night Idea release Riverless in 2017 on @citruscityy and Gigantic Noise, a spellbinding album that intricately fuses experimental pop, prog rock, and widescreen post-punk.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exuberant rock artisans Paint On It (formerly The Billy Bacci Band) release their self-titled album in 2020, a dynamic showcase of technical prowess and crafty precision that shines through infectious melodies and indelible hooks.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hip-hop virtuoso Bradford Thomas releases Bradventure III in 2020, a mesmerizing beat tape that perfectly encapsulates the prolific producer’s melodic wonder and creative ingenuity.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vapory shoegaze force Always Other releases Far From Everyone You Know in 2023, a lush reverie of hazy emotions flowing through a blend of searing and soothing tones.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Richmond ambient icon VonnBoyd releases Desperation in 2021, a penetrating instrumental suite in five parts that creates a sonic landscape of contemplation and introspection.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Surfy garage rockers The Milkstains release Hot Sauce Cemetery in 2011, a grainy and vivacious album that captures the striking essence of their energetic and lo-fi sound.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Intergalatic music troupe League Of Space Pirates release their debut record, Hypertrophy, in 2010, a four-track EP that navigates electrorock soundscapes brimming with daring rebellion & exhilarating freedom.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

D-beat miscreants Buzzard Dust release their self-titled record on Forcefield Records in 2017, delivering a relentless and incisive critique of capitalist ambitions, athletic escapism, & pharmaceutical excess.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Folk-punk troubadour Madison Turner releases UGGGHHHHH! in 2015, a bold four-track release that encapsulates her raw, unfiltered emotions through swift strumming and reflective lyrics.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

October 12th


Musical gurus Butcher Brown release Camden Sessions in 2018, a dazzling showcase of their virtuosity that blends turbulent funk and ingenious jazz into an immersive sonic experience.

Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Roaring underground quartet Nudibranch release Bioluminescence via Blue Turk Records in 2021, a previously unreleased album from 1996 that showcases the band’s searing mix of nascent noise rock, hardcore, & math rock.

Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Rambunctious rockers Sports Bar release Stranger In My Head in 2018, a perfect blend of anthemic tunes and reflective lyrics, tailor-made for a night of profound partying.

Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Venturous hip-hop artist LIL UGLY MANE releases Volcanic Bird Enemy And The Voiced Concern in 2021, an elusive record that utilizes surreal psychedelic to showcase a sharp ear for structured musical vagrancy.

Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Punk band The Alex Jonestown Massacre release Fear Of A Flat Planet in 2018, a lively drive that mixes melodic defiance with jangly aspiration in order to bring nuance to raw intensity.

Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Folk absurdist Kevin Knight releases With Hat in 2018, a transformative album that marks the full realization of his vibrant sonic vision.

Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Richmond sonic visionary Tennishu releases Dream Music in 2017, a melodic montage of hypnotic soundscapes, forceful bars, and visceral melodies that invite contemplation and introspection.

Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Indie multi-instrumentalist Trout Baseline releases New Location in 2023, a dynamic kaleidoscope of melodic expression that spirals out into striking pop, rock, and electronic patterns.

Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Prudent emo duo The Slow-Goers release their third record, EVERHOME, in 2019, a poignant and crawling journey into emotional turmoil, showcasing the band’s distinctive “snail rock” sound.

Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Early alt rock quartet Amphetamine Library release their self-titled album in 2014, featuring a collection of songs crafted during their mid-’80s heyday, reflecting their enduring curiosity and steadfast belief in rock’s vast potential

Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

October 11th

Spacebomb Records releases All Together Now: 15 Years of The Richmond Folk Festival Live in 2019, a lavish compilation featuring live performances that traverse the rich history of the famed local festival.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thrash specialists Municipal Waste release their fourth EP, The Last Rager, in 2019, a brief but impactful offering that maintains the crossover mainstay’s consistent metal prowess.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Captivating artisan Saekyi releases Angels Don’t Call Me in 2022, a dazzling affair that mixes graceful R&B with forceful hip-hop to deliver a poised and fascinating record.
Spotify

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Electronic artist Gardener releases Heavy Everything in 2016, a four-song suite that further explores his loop construction with textural curiosity and droning wonder.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Experimental hip-hop artist 38KEA releases Black Helicopters in 2017, a distorted hip-hop offering that focuses as much on slanting tones and curved layering as it does on visceral beats and potent sampling.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Folk-punk songsters Pedals On Our Pirate Ships release Come Back Home in 2018, an energetic four-track release that leans heavily into vibrant pop punk with infectious melodies and compelling hooks.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bedroom recording artificer Chard Murla releases Square One in 2020, a lush tapestry of songwriting cleverly disguised within a lo-fi pastiche that will surprise and excite.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Resonant rhapsodist Pew releases Echo Town in 2021, a collection of plush psych-folk songs that soar with dreamlike melodies and introspective lyricism.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Snippy crossover miscreants Anti-Capitulate release their self-titled album in 2019, a hardcore record that brings plenty of metal and punk to win over listeners with their unflinching allegiance to their musical identity.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Americana trio James Justin & Co. release Places in 2012, a heartfelt expression of roots passion that extends past the arboreal horizon into the yearning sky.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

October 10th

Slick producer Just Plain Ant / @antthesymbol releases SeeWhatEyeSee in 2010, a melodic wonderland of sound that covers piercing soul, misty trip hop, and vibing hip-hop all swirling around an overflowing sonic mind.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Math rock auditors Midair release Faceache in 2012, a vibrant exploration of creative instrumentation & complex structures, showcasing their prowess in blending intricate melodies with dynamic soundscapes.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Death metal magi @eradicantrva release Hideous Symmetry in 2021 on @death.eternal, a fomenting record that unleashes a torrent of brutal riffs, relentless percussion, and guttural vocals.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Prolific post-hardcore purveyor Apostles Of Eris releases Standard Guitar Music in 2018, a grave three-song release defined by its raw intensity, intricate guitar work, and unrelenting emotional depth.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

@gallery5arts and @stereoimagerva releases Live From G5 vol. 1 in 2015, a nine-track compilation of performances at the Jackson Ward mainstay from Richmond mainstays Clair Morgan, Snowy Owls, Young Scum, and more.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Passionate folk performer @fartbeef releases Quite Frankly in 2023, an introspective album that highlights his distinctive fingerpicking technique while delving into the intricate emotions of a significant entry in his audible diary.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Boom bap duo Rare Formz release The Album in 2015, a soaring hip-hop assemblage of rhythmic beats, sharp lyricism, and soulful samples that pays homage to the golden era of the genre.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deathcore agitators Captive Eyes release The Devil You Don’t in 2014, a relentless assault of an album that leaves a lasting impact with its sheer brutality and uncompromising intensity.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Metal brutes @iochroma_music release The Hideous Triumphs Of Form And Function in 2020, a searing collection of jagged riffs and blast-barrel rhythms which catapult the listener into a turbulent realm of sonic aggression.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lo-fi rocker @joe.howl_ releases Myth in 2014, a grainy and vivid four-track record that explores a distinct musical landscape full of haunting melodies and hazy instrumentation.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

October 9th

Skilled duo Holy River (fka Lobo Marino) releases Fields in 2013, a concept album capturing moments and spaces over a two-year period with patient field recordings and empyrean guidance.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RVA Music Scene and Indoor Suns Productions release Volume One in 2017, a fourteen-track compilation born from a close-knit musical community fueled by its collective passion.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Electronic purveyor Dust~ releases Overdue in 2020, a two-part musical statement featuring Radio Blitz and Spirit Drummer that blends Afrobeat, hip-hop, and digital tinkering into a powerful narrative of progress and resistance.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Richmond music pillar DJ Harrison releases Tape Machine Fiend Pt.1: Rarities, Throwbacks And Mishaps in 2013, a ten-track collection of unreleased jams and instrumentals chosen at random from a thirty-four track reserve.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Quiet Year Records releases the Loud?, Secret Plot, Ostraca (fka Kilgore Trout), and Girl Scouts split in 2013, a four-song offering of the local label’s varied and piercing sound.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Human Jerky and Oozing Meat release their split tape on Chaotic Noise Productions in 2017, an ear-splitting goregrind release that captures the length machinations of two awry musicians.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vibrant producer Profound79 releases Raw convo. in 2016, a lively beat tape that flows with agile finesse while unfolding with careful attention, allowing each groove to fully embrace its captivating charm.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Breezy lo-fi MC DooF releases F∆¥C∑ EP in 2012, a five-track offering that displays a tight yet relaxed flow through dusty and gusty beats.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Underground hip-hop collective Astral Trap releases The Hood Witch Doctor in 2018, a fusion of trap, tread, and horrorcore that intimidates with gumption and excites with talent.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bedroom pop artist Cat Be Damned releases 2015 in 2016, a wistful collection of melodic impressions that fills the lo-fi space with hi-fi emotion.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

October 8th

Post-rock artisans Shy, Low release their fifth album, Snake Behind The Sun, in 2021, a soaring record that encapsulates their mastery in the delicate art of stark contrasts and broad dynamics.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cherub Records releases CH040: 20 Years Of Cherub Records in 2021, a thirty-track overview of their illustrious discography that covers punk rock and shoegaze up to experimental electronica and improvisational avant-garde.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Versatile singer-songwriter Anousheh releases her second album, The Trouble I Find, in 2012, an emotive record that shifts away from her earlier electronic sound to delve into a richer indie-pop landscape.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Resolute metal brutes ANTICHRIST SIEGE MACHINE release Purifying Blade in 2021, an eleven-track record that serves as a relentless and unyielding sonic onslaught.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hip-hop virtuoso ohbliv releases Lewse Joints V in 2016, an intricately crafted beat tape consisting of eighteen tracks, showcasing the producer’s unparalleled talent and unwavering consistency.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Potent pop punk pack XED OUT releases Give Me The Night in 2021, a roaming survey of the elements that make rebellious rock songs resonate deeply in our minds and hearts for a lifetime.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Devotional troupe Uptick Artists Collective release Vol 1 in 2015, showcasing six unique and passionate performers as they express themselves freely in the spirit of communal joy.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Love Roses & Brainbuster release their split record on Tired & Pissed Records in 2017, a brisk collection of six songs that showcase each band’s speedy melodic hardcore style that excites and energizes.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Astricted no wave project Strategy Of Tension releases 30-31b in 2022, an expressive cacophony of technical skill and emotional strife.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vibrant garage quartet The Yahmis release Nothing Makes Sense Anymore in 2020, a tight four-song EP that their energetic and elastic sound.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

October 7th

The first-ever Richmond Folk Festival is held in 2005, commemorating the profound cultural tapestry of America by highlighting the communal arts, which in turn helped established Richmond as an artistic destination.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Metal icons Lamb Of God release their eleventh album, Omens, in 2022, a testament to their enduring power, unyielding aggression, and ability to deliver a satisfyingly heavy and enraged record.
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Towering post-metalcore group Terror Cell release their debut album, Caustic Light, on Fisher King Records in 2022, a bold album that blends chaotic and atmospheric music into a formidable sonic tapestry.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sharpened shoegaze sleuths Twin Drugs releases In Now Less Than Ever in 2022, a soaring record characterized by a gritty dream-pop sound executed with technical precision and emotional resonance.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mutant Academy & Scheme Team member Big Kahuna OG releases Weapon OX in 2018, a bustling hip-hop record that offers ten fetching tracks that showcase melodic versatility, lyrical poise, and the elusive “it” factor.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hermetic producer Swelthy releases The Pothos Tape in 2022, a bountiful beat tape that thrives in the midst of adversity, transforming the artist’s personal trials and tribulations into a resilient and resonant sonic journey.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cosmic folk gazer Christian Luke Brady releases It Is As It Should Be in 2023, a melodic distillation of the wonders of paternal guidance, a never-ending journey that matches the spacious jams on this touching record.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Alt-hip-hop artisan Billy Capricorn releases Goat Emoji in 2016, a collection of idyllic-named beats that embody their idyllic settings with impish charm, wide-eyed wonder, and cagey skill.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Awry soundscaper Brandon Hurtado releases Skeleton In My Head in 2020, an experimental ambient track that spotlights the menacing and disquieting timbres of introspective sound.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Immersive lo-fi psych-rocker Jordan Asfari releases his self-titled record in 2019 on Anti-Everything, an experimental record which showcases a kaleidoscope of sonic textures, blending intricate melodies with raw, unfiltered instrumentation.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

October 6th

Musical gurus Butcher Brown releases Solar Music in 2023, an extraordinary blend of vibrant jazz and inventive electro-funk, delivered with striking precision that earned them the 2024 Newlin Music Prize!
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Metal icons GWAR releases their first EP, The Road Behind, in 1992, a unique entry in their brutal discography led by a travel-weary classic in their catalog that showcases a different & intriguing side of the band.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ingenious songwriter Pete Curry releases Advice On Love in 2015, a lo-fi exploration of heartfelt pop-rock and errant punk rock, delivered with soul-affirming DIY charm.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Producer Lounge releases Vol. 1: Shades Of Summer in 2022, a compilation of fetching beats from seven prime producers working to push their melodic vision in an collaborative environment.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Digital experimenter Brown Piss releases Maggot Shack on Chaotic Noise Productions in 2015, a rabid shriek of musical defiance stretched across eight tracks that showcase a frenzied, yet nuanced musical mind.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Garage rompers Psychic Idols release Face On Backwards in 2018, a rollicking lo-fi stroll through fuzzy and bouncy psych rock that captivates with infectious energy and a raw, unapologetic sonic attitude.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Degloved and Oozing Meat release their split record in 2023, a harsh quarter hour of squirming rhythms and festering distortions that proudly lives up to the gorenoise subgenre.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Melodic hard rock band 59H2O releases Gaslit in 2018, a piercing album that melds razor-sharp guitar riffs, potent vocals, and introspective lyrics, delivering an anthemic sonic journey through emotional depths.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gloomy post-punk artist Aural Exile releases Attrition in 2010, a shadowy expression that displays versatile nuance across darkwave and hardcore soundscapes.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sly performer Kaskazini releases Hydrangea in 2016, a hypnotic electro-pop album that seeks meaning and inspiration through its Swahili melodic mantras, all crafted with clever production.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

October 5th

Doom titans Windhand release their fourth album, Eternal Return, in 2018, an imposing record that sees the bold quartet delving even deeper into the metal abyss.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Richmond sonic visionary Tennishu releases DrumTapes in 2022, a captivating exploration of multi-instrumental expression that mirrors the vibrant wonder illustrated in the album’s artwork.
Spotify

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dynamic freak folk act Wolf//Goat releases In Watermelon Sugar in 2012, a thrilling musical experience with bold musicianship & moving melodies stretched over eleven exhalating tracks.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chiptune visionary an0va releases Ego Depletion in 2013, a lush album that adds an extra bit of transcendent charm and creative artistry to the 8-bit frame.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bombastic MC Rocstagis releases I’m Different in 2022, a vibrant boom bap record full of dynamic bars and bustling samples.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lush dreamscaper 秋 releases 哀悼 in 2022, a dense seven-track album that mixes drone, ambient, darkwave, and even jazz for a mesmerizing and intricate sonic journey.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Atmospheric rocker Adam Law releases Resonance in 2014, an instrumental fusion record that gives classical grace to hard rock force with virtuosic guitar work and evocative compositions.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Punk roarers Frame release Mild Plague in 2019, a brisk five-track sprint through raw intensity, relentless energy, and unfiltered discontent.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Noise artist Pain Generator releases An Open Vein / Bottomed Out in 2020, a thirty-minute tumultuous album divided into two unsettling movements that resonate with distorted coherence.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Post-hardcore quartet Dark Waters release Dreams In Bottle Rockets in 2021, a frenzied outpouring of emotional intensity that ignites with fierce musical fury.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

October 4th

Local hip-hop icon Noah-O & producer extraordinaire Fan Ran release Dirty Rice: Deux in 2019 on Gritty City Records, a bountiful hip-hop serving that follows-up on their memorable 2017 record with refined rhymes, bold beats, and full flows.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Metalcore six-piece Listless release their self-titled debut record in 2018, a briery record with detonating rhythms, piercing riffs, and howling vocals.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Black metal outfit Voarm release their self-titled debut album in 2019, a thundering barrage of pulsating percussion, gnarled guitars, and mephitic melodies.
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Twee rioters Atta Girl release their demo tape in 2015, a three-song garage offering that showcases their insolent sweetness in lo-fi glory.
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Hearty folk musician Tristan Dougherty releases his demo tape in 2021, a sweeping display of contemplative finger-style artistry and lyrics that exude comfort and clarity.
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Experimental voyager Miranda releases With Emily ~ in 2015, a rich tapestry of bold soundscapes, each unique in their vision and execution, but tethered by nuanced melodic skill.
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Ambient composer Steve Ashby releases To Look Up Is To Breathe in 2019, a droning instrumental suite broken into seven gripping movements that tremble with musical ambition.
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Ambitious band The Rival Cycle releases Remainder in 2019, a standout album that thrives in expansive progressive structures while also delivering intense post-hardcore anthems.
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Buoyant rockers Billy Neptune releases Summer Nights in 2019, a rollicking three-song record that charms with lively personality and excites with fetching expertise.
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Cinematic synth composer blvcklvng releases Hallostep Vol. III in 2019, a dubstep album that honors cinematic horror classics while maintaining a vibrant pulse of electronic energy.
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October 3rd

Forceful pop punkers Kept At Bay releases Adjust in 2014, a rollicking six-track with galloping electric riffs and powerful choruses directed by a lively percussive quake.
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Progressive underground act JAK3 releases r4ver in 2019, a genuinely experimental album that defies genre boundaries, never lingering long enough in one style to be labeled as anything but striking.
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Lush lo-fi rock band Coy Pond releases Living In Hindsight in 2020 through Rosewood Recordings, a dreamy five-song record that outstretches its modest recording with melodic charm and musical wonder.
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Sharp singer-songwriter Brandon Davis (WifiPassword) releases Soft Words In Quiet Rooms in 2012, an eight-track acoustic offering that showcases his melodic and narrative prowess through emotive songwriting.
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Ambient observer bleeech releases Infinite Never in 2019, a five-track progression through wide-eared dissection that’s recreated in enveloping soundscapes.
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Irresistible rock group Warren Hixson releases Hawaiian Underwear in 2013, an overflowing record that captivates with melodic personality, sharp musicianship, and vast vision.
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Darkwave artist nosuchname releases Hail Disarmer in 2018, a five-track excursion through shadowy pop songwriting that infectiously pulsates and ominously exhilarates.
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Enterprising rock project Six Foot Silver release Wounded Animal in 2020, an intrepid eleven-track journey through several rock styles that meld into a cohesive and engaging sound.
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Hardcore producer Sofia Lakis releases Ravers Say/Weapons Grade in 2022, a dual-sided electronic release that highlights an intriguing techno sound infused with industrial dance elements and house music ambitions.
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DF Triste releases Emotional Haemophilia in 2023, a delicate yet forceful record that shifts garage rock through shades of folk, pop, and punk with resolute wonder.
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October 2nd

Mutant Academy members Big Kahuna OG & Foisey release Flee Tape in 2020, a mesmeric hip-hop record that sees the duo share production duties in order to further amplify the enveloping beats and slicing bars.
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Exquisite multi-instrumentalist left.hnd releases Ad Mausoleum on SubFlora in 2020, a record that masterfully blends intricate melodies, lavish soundscapes, and emotive lyricism.
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Half Past Dead release their self-titled debut record in 2018, a high octane mix of rock, metal and punk that blend into a madcap melodic melee.
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Avant-garde lounge quipster Chino Amobi release What A Wonderful World in 2020, a smokey six-track record that moves through swirling instrumentals with sardonic commentary.
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Crackerjack pop-punkers ShotClock release Side A in 2020, a flawless representation of the melodic fusion of bright pop and fiery punk which energizes listeners with infectious hooks and vibrant energy.
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Brassy jazz phenom Bryan Hooten releases Isolation in 2020, a reflective journey into the solace of solitude, using freeform progressions to help navigate through turbulent times.
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VUDMURK (aka LIL UGLY MANE) release Obedient Form in 2021, a six track “demo” tape seamless mixed to provide immersive insight into an eclectic and challenging sonic world.
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The Spacebomb House Band release X: Kernel Eternal in 2020, the final entry into their bountiful Library Music series that sums up the accumulated expertise and creativity of this instrumental collective.
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Exploratory heavy rock band Asylum213 released Not Homeless / Just Hopeless in 2021, an ambitious album that navigates through metal, alternative, post-rock, shoegaze, screamo, and beyond, showcasing melodic skill and lyrical depth.
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Experimental outfit Daggering releases Bad Moon Rising on Chaotic Noise Productions in 2015, a record containing four sprawling noise movements that were recorded at beloved Richmond venue Strange Matter.
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October 1st

Slick maestro Ant The Symbol releases Ant Hasn’t Heard Of You, Either in 2021, a thoughtful and emotionally charged hip-hop album that was nominated for the inaugural Newlin Music Prize.
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Illa Styles & Vers release IllaVeRs in 2021, a bombastic hip-hop record teeming with smooth jams, clever rhymes, and impressive artistry that was nominated for the inaugural Newlin Music Prize.
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Indie folk rock legends Carbon Leaf release their second album, Shadows In The Banquet Hall, in 1997, offering an early glimpse of their expanding creativity, with songs that still resonate as fan favorites decades later.
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Volume I & II of the Nightmare On Grace Street: A Virginia Halloween compilations are released in 2014 & 2015, featuring an all-star line-up of local talent including No BS! Brass, Clair Morgan, Lightfields, BlackLiq, Diamond Center, Hot Dolphin, White Laces, Sports Bar, and more!
Volume One
https://nightmareongracestreet.bandcamp.com/album/nightmare-on-grace-street-vol-ii”>Volume Two“>Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Punk luminaries Inquisition release their third album, The Broken Songs, in 1993, a bold entry into their defiant underground catalog that features irresistible songwriting and impressive musicianship.
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Richmond institution No BS! Brass release their self-titled record in 2010, a remarkable collection of tracks that thrives on playful creativity and celebrates the spirit of joyful collaboration.
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Insightful songwriter Sincerely, Iris releases I’m Not The Same in 2019, an album that navigates a Jekyll and Hyde approach, balancing his homespun blues approach with richly introspective folk melodies.
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Post-punk pop stylists Positive No releases their debut record, Via Florum, in 2013, a sublime five-song EP that deftly intertwines sugary melodies with angular garage jams.
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Experimental improvisational ensemble The Colloquial Orchestra release Alive In Richmond on Cherub Records in 2016, a dynamic collection of live performances from 2009 to 2014 that showcases the collaborative and versatile Richmond music scene.
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Indie rock forerunners The Silent Type release their debut self-titled record in 2000, a touching record that blends folk melody and slowcore ambience for an intriguing musical experience.
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