Song of the Day

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September 4, 2024

The Belle Sounds: “Oh Humanity”

By: Jack Anderson

For a lot of people, when you think of synth pop, you think “inorganic”. You think “artifice”. Which, to be fair, “synthesizer”, “synthetic”…we get it. But despite the constructed character of those modern mood makers, there’s plenty of potential for passion and authenticity in the synth pop sector.

So let’s get into the The Belle Sounds. This morning the five-piece indie-folk-rock family affair unfurled their fourth EP Oh Humanity – a six-song stretch of anthemic hooks, in-the-pocket vocal harmonies, and retro-inspired textures that tastefully recycle the best elements of ’80s pop. And if you want to rock out to the Blondie-esque bops in person, catch The Belle Sounds at a double release show 8PM this Saturday at 3Ten ACL Live alongside Ray Prim and Suzanna Choffel.

Still not sold on the heart of this synth pop art? Let the EP opener and title track “Oh Humanity” convince you of otherwise. Because despite its lyrically bleak outlook, its a brief, upbeat piece of pop perfection (anchored by riling arpeggios, killer chords, and pleasant pads) that’ll make for an banging addition to your retro pop playlist.


Episodes

August 14, 2026

A Band Called Ma: “SALT”

Releasing their self-titled debut album today, Austin’s A Band Called Ma is giving us our daily dose of nostalgia through the 90s-inspired rhythm guitar and abstract lyricism featured in their single “SALT.” This track was the last single released for the album, acting as the final taste of what’s to come from their self-produced and […]

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August 13, 2026

Dom Francis: “Alligator Rain”

Austin’s Dom Francis brings a hazy, rain-soaked feel to “Alligator Rain,” pairing a laid-back groove with a sound that feels a little strange in the best way. There’s a looseness to the track that lets the instrumentation breathe, while Francis’ vocals keep things grounded. It’s an easygoing listen with a little mystery around the edges.

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August 12, 2026

Seth Celdrán: “Stiletto”

Austin’s Seth Celdrán brings a sharp, swaggering edge to “Stiletto,” a track that blends a driving groove with sleek production and plenty of attitude. There’s something effortlessly cool about the way the song moves, balancing its darker edge with a rhythm that keeps it light on its feet. “Stiletto” has just enough bite to make […]

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August 11, 2026

Shakey Graves: “When the Love Was New” [The Hole Story]

*The Hole Story is powered by Austin Beerworks* Long before Shakey Graves was filling theaters around the world, Alejandro Rose-Garcia was finding his footing at Austin’s Hole in the Wall, where an early happy-hour residency helped shape the artist he would become. More than a decade later, that connection remains. In 2026, Shakey brought his […]

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August 10, 2026

Modiste: “Breaking My Own Heart”

The past is coming up from behind on the debut single from Louisville, Kentucky synth trio Modiste. The 80’s-inspired group employs exclusively analog and digital vintage instruments and toys to invoke a true pastiche of your favorite smokey 80’s underground music with just a whisper of the modern age. Think Jane Leo meets Kate Bush […]

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August 7, 2026

Paige Plaisance: “Waiting”

Paige Plaisance is carving out her own lane with a sound she coins “Swampytonkin’.” Raised on a farm near the muddy banks of the Mississippi River, the Austin-based singer-songwriter and pianist is back with her highly anticipated second full-length album, Swampwater. Recorded at Austin’s famed Finishing School and produced by Jonathan Tyler, Swampwater further establishes Plaisance as a masterful, […]

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August 6, 2026

BLUUM: “Tough Break, Kid”

Coming from the Los Angeles Music scene, the LA duo “BLUUM” (with two Us) is blossoming with some quality 90s inspired alternative music. This track wants to bring it back to when rock ruled the world. The pair produced this song alongside their debut self titled album from their LA apartments. Who knows? Maybe this […]

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August 5, 2026

Magic Rockers of Texas: “Where Did My Life Go” [Live In Studio 1A]

Looking to fill your Thursdays this August? Austin sardonic power-pop group Magic Rockers of Texas are holding down this month’s residency spot at one of our favorite venues: the Hole In the Wall. They’re kicking it off tonight with guests Slomo Drags and Quinn Decker and the LLC. We’re throwing it back to their latest […]

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