This week, our 5 free downloads come from: Neko Case who’ll be on the road with Ray LaMontagne (they make a stop in Los Angeles June 3); Little Dragon who kick-off KCRW’s World Festival in June; new Colombian duo called MNKYBSNSS; Tijuana shoegazers Mint Field; and rapper/producer Black Milk, who’s making music with a purpose.
Monday, April 2 Neko Case “Hell-On”
It takes a village to create an album, and on Neko Case’s ninth recording she gathers up a cast of talented musicians, techs, and friends Beth Ditto, k.d. lang and Laura Veirs to showcase her poetic sensibilities. The title track, “Hell-On” -which opens the album – peels back the curtain on a record full of mysterious storytelling.
Tuesday, April 3 Little Dragon “Best Friends”
One of our favorite Swedish bands, Little Dragon, recently provided a brand new track called “Best Friends” for KCRW to premiere. In return, they’ll kick off the 20th season of KCRW’s World Festival on June 17 alongside Flying Lotus at the iconic Hollywood Bowl.
Wednesday, April 4 MNKYBSNSS “Something’s Missing”
Electronic duo MNKYBSNSS hail from Colombia but originated in Argentina while studying music together. Poolside’s Filip Nikolic produced their debut album, and it features abstract compositions and divergent rhythms. Check out “Something’s Missing.”
Thursday, April 5 Mint Field “El Parque Parecía No Tener Fin”
Based in Tijuana, Mint Field features lead singer/guitarist Estrella Sanchez and childhood friend Amor Amezcua, a self-declared synth-nerd and drummer. Their brand of shoegaze has been carefully honed into head spinning psychedelia on “El Parque Parecía No Tener Fin” (or “The Park Seemed To Have No Boundaries”).
Friday, April 6 Black Milk “Laugh Now Cry Later”
Detroit hip-hop artist Black Milk takes an unflinching look at the unstable times we are living through. Each of his songs has a purpose, and “Laugh Now Cry Later” is no exception, as the jam portrays an emotional tug of war around social media.
(Litte Dragon photo c/o: Stuart Sevastos)