Amber Wade | Black Squirrel Radio Music

After The Matches disbanded, guitarist Jonathan Devoto stepped up to play the role of front man in his new California-based rock band, Bird by Bird. The band’s debut E.P., Albatross, shows off Devoto’s skills as a guitarist as well as a vocalist. His raspy vocals on occasion are similar to that of former Matches vocalist Shawn Harris. These songs have an appeal that will please fans of his previous work while having the capability of reaching beyond that audience.

Ellen Kirtner | Black Squirrel Radio Music

Gold Motel’s aptly titled “Summer House” (self-released) is a great pop record from start to finish, featuring retro-laced jams filled to the brim with rich vocals and bouncing melodies.   Perfect for a night drive with the windows down or a refreshing afternoon at the beach, “Summer House” has a solid chance of becoming the go-to summertime record for pop-lovers and indie elitists alike.

Lauren Cupkovic | BSR Music

Eight Belles is a beautiful album that reminds me of the best part of the indie music experience; which is finding a song or artist you love, and then claiming it as your own personal treasure. New York based, Jessie Murphy In The Woods, is a band that deserves to be discovered in the vast genre of indie/folk. The trio consists of Marcia Webb (flute, pan pipes, clarinet, Wurlitzer electric piano, and vocals), Amy Stratton (horn, flute, vocals, and percussion), and Jessie Murphy (lead vocals, and acoustic guitar).

Olivia Stephens| BSR Music

Despite its not-so-publicized announcement as the first record released by front man Clarence Greenwood’s newly created label, RainWater Recordings, Citizen Cope’s fourth album, The Rainwater LP, is nothing less than well produced. The record made for a continuation of talented tracks released from the Washington, D.C native.

Since his debut in 2002 with self-titled record, Citizen Cope, Greenwood’s album-to-album style has remained a distinctive mix of R&B, rock, and funk that reaches the heart and soul. His third album, Every Waking Moment, released on previous label RCA Records, peaked at #69 on the Billboard 200 Chart in 2006. After touring North America in 2008, selling over 100,000 concert tickets, Greenwood began work on The Rainwater LP, full of soulfully rich tunes, released in early February.