Author Archives: TMN Staff

[Alternative] Pullman – Weightless

Posted by TMN Staff - October 29, 2025

The first note of “Weightless” feels like the snap of a band-that-was finally allowing itself to settle. There’s a stillness here that’s more intentional than accidental, as though Pullman have recalibrated their clocks in anticipation of a long overdue reunion. The track arrives as the leading single from their new album III, due January 9 2026 via Western Vinyl.

Pullman first gathered in Chicago’s late-’90s post-rock fringes, with members including Ken “Bundy K.” Brown, Doug McCombs, Curtis Harvey and Chris Brokaw — all steeped in projects that emphasised texture, mood and instrumental depth. Their debut Turnstyles & Junkpiles (1998) and its follow-up Viewfinder (2001) built the group’s reputation for subtle, acoustic-driven instrumental work.

“Weightless” effectively picks up the thread after more than two decades. The guitars circle and overlap, voices absent, yet the piece brims with personality. Rather than rushing into big gestures, the track stays low, building its space slowly, observing more than proclaiming. The atmosphere is spacious and time-stretched, echoing Pullman’s old instincts but also acknowledging the weight of absence — a band returning, matured, measured.

Pullman are finding strength in that quiet rather than hiding behind it.

What stands out is how the track manages familiarity without repeating itself. Pullman’s signature acoustic interplay is still there, but this feels less about exploration than reflection. There’s a reflective calm in the recording, as though the band members are conversing with each other across years. The production is clean, the room felt rather than filled, and the silence between notes as meaningful as the notes themselves.

In the larger arc of the band’s career, this single signals both continuity and change. The early albums introduced Pullman as craftsmen of quiet landscapes; now “Weightless” suggests they are finding strength in that quiet rather than hiding behind it. The fact that this track leads into III indicates they aren’t simply revisiting their past—they’re letting what they learned sit beside them. From the lush ambient folk-instrumental of ‘98 to today’s stripped resilience, there’s a lineage and yet a new chapter.

For longtime listeners, “Weightless” may feel like meeting an old friend who has learned how to speak softly but with purpose. For newcomers, it offers a compelling introduction: this is music not about filling space but about inhabiting it. It may not shout, but it listens—and in that listening, there’s clarity, subtle drama, and the quiet thrill of arrival.

Alternative/Rock

[Indie] Tim Heidecker – Alone Until I’m Home

Posted by TMN Staff - October 29, 2025

Released as a part of the upcoming Western Vinyl Compilation, Passeges: Artists in Solidarity with Immigrants, Refugees and Asylum Seekers, comedian/writer/musician Tim Heidecker’s “Alone Until I’m Home,” offers a poignant meditation on isolation, wrapping complex emotions in a tapestry of gently strummed melodies and understated production. Featured on the compilation , this track serves as both a personal reflection and a broader commentary on belonging in an increasingly fragmented world.

The song unfolds with a delicate balance of nostalgia and yearning, characterized by Heidecker’s signature vocal timbre, which carries an almost haunting weight. His delivery, steeped in sincerity, evokes the spirit of introspective singer-songwriters from the 1970s, yet with a contemporary twist that feels both timely and timeless. The arrangement is sparse yet effective, allowing the listener to be enveloped in the emotional landscape he paints. Each lyrical phrase feels deliberate, a measured step through the shadows of his thoughts.

“Here I am, alone until I’m home,” he sings, encapsulating the crux of his longing. The repetition of this line serves as a mantra, underscoring a relentless search for connection amidst solitude. Heidecker’s words resonate deeply within the context of a world grappling with division and displacement, reflecting a universal struggle for identity and place.

An emotional touchstone that resonates with anyone who has felt adrift.

As the track progresses, subtle layers emerge, hinting at the influence of indie folk traditions. Its understated nature allows for a moment of reflection, where the listener can consider their own experiences of isolation and connection. This introspective quality places Heidecker in a lineage of artists who have used personal narratives to address larger societal themes, much like the work of Sufjan Stevens or Iron & Wine, who similarly blend the personal with the universal.

While Heidecker is predominantly known for his work in comedy and film, his musical contributions reveal a different facet of his creativity, showcasing a depth often overshadowed by his comedic persona. This track stands as a testament to his range, allowing him to explore the serious weight of his subject matter with both humor and gravity.

“Alone Until I’m Home” is not merely a song about loneliness; it is an invitation to reflect on our shared human experience. In this moment, Heidecker transcends his comedic roots, offering instead a powerful statement on the essence of what it means to find one’s place in the world. The track lingers long after it fades, urging listeners to consider their own journeys toward belonging.

Listen to Alone Until I’m Home by Tim Heidecker:

Indie

[Indie] Nina Bloom – Juliet

Posted by TMN Staff - October 28, 2025

Genre: indie

Nina Bloom’s latest single “Juliet” unfolds like a hazy reverie, inviting listeners into a world where desire and melancholy intertwine. The track blends ethereal pop sensibilities with a poignant exploration of romantic longing, showcasing Bloom’s delicate vocal delivery, which floats effortlessly above a shimmering soundscape. It’s a song that feels at once intimate and expansive, allowing the listener to drift along with its currents.

The production is layered yet understated, creating a lush atmosphere that enhances the emotional weight of the lyrics. Echoing synths and soft percussive elements provide a gentle foundation, allowing Bloom’s voice to shine. This careful arrangement gives the track a cinematic quality, reminiscent of the dream-pop of the late ’80s and early ’90s, evoking comparisons to artists like Mazzy Star or even contemporary figures like Billie Eilish. The sonic palette feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern, appealing to a diverse audience that craves depth in pop music.

Thematically, “Juliet” grapples with the complexities of love and longing, a narrative that resonates universally. Lines that evoke vivid imagery of yearning and hope are woven seamlessly into the fabric of the song, drawing listeners into the emotional landscape Bloom is navigating. One can sense the influence of her background as an actress; her storytelling ability shines through, turning personal experiences into relatable moments. As she sings about the bittersweet nature of desire, there’s an authenticity that makes every word feel significant.

In a world where many pop songs lean heavily on surface-level hooks, “Juliet” stands out for its introspective lyrics and evocative atmosphere. It reflects a broader cultural moment where vulnerability is celebrated, encouraging artists to share their innermost thoughts and feelings. Bloom’s ability to tap into this sentiment suggests a promising evolution in her artistry.

As the track progresses, it builds towards a crescendo that feels both cathartic and haunting, leaving the listener suspended in the afterglow of its emotional intensity. This is where “Juliet” truly shines, transforming what could be a simple pop song into a poignant meditation on the nuances of love.

Nina Bloom may still be carving out her space in the music world, but with “Juliet,” she has crafted a compelling entry that showcases her talent and sets the stage for what’s to come.

“I want to be your everything, but I’m lost in the shadows,” she sings, encapsulating the delicate balance of hope and despair that permeates the track.

Listen to Juliet by Nina Bloom:

Indie

[Alt R&B] SV x Alyssa Jane – On My Mind

Posted by TMN Staff - October 25, 2025

Genre: Alt-R&B

In “On My Mind,” Boston-based SV hones a soulful soundscape that feels both intimate and expansive, threading together the complexities of desire and ambition that resonates immediately. The track opens with a hypnotic rhythm, drawing listeners into a space where vulnerability and aspiration coexist, setting the backdrop for warm, shimmering vocals.

Alyssa Jane’s longing lyrics reveal an earnest exploration of connection, encapsulated in the refrain, “So you’ve been on my mind.” As the artist muses, “Whether I go left / Whether you go right,” the sentiment of uncertainty permeates the track.

Produced with a clear focus on atmospheric depth, “On My Mind” unfolds into an enveloping experience, weaving together layers that evoke a contemporary electronic aesthetic. Alyssa Jane’s vocal delivery, earnest and unpretentious, serves as the emotional anchor, inviting listeners to resonate with the sentiments of ambition and intimacy. The juxtaposition of lines like “Just love, just real” against the backdrop of a bustling percussion speaks to the artist’s ability to balance personal reflection with broader life experiences.

The production choices here echo the current wave of artists redefining electronic music’s boundaries, reminiscent of the introspective approach found in the works of contemporaries like James Blake. This collaboration provides a willingness to embrace both ambition and honesty in their collaboration, adding a layer of authenticity that feels refreshing in today’s R&B landscape.

In exploring the interplay of ambition and emotional vulnerability, “On My Mind” transcends its R&B roots, offering a poignant commentary on the complexities of modern relationships. SV and Alyssa Jane invite listeners into a world where the sincerity of connection is both a solace and a challenge, ultimately leaving a lasting impression that resonates well beyond the final beat.

“Whether I came in / Whether you chose life over me” captures the essence of a generation caught in the push and pull of ambition and affection, a theme that remains profoundly relevant in our fast-paced world.

Listen to On My Mind by SV x Alyssa Jane

R&B
Soul

[Hip Hop] Akanimo – Relaxation Electric

Posted by TMN Staff - October 25, 2025

In the world of hip hop, where innovation often meets familiarity, Charlotte-based Akanimo’s “Relaxation Electric,” emerges with an artful nod to A Tribe Called Quest. The track, part of his 2021 EP DISTORTION, beckons listeners into an immersive environment that balances kinetic energy and a meditative undertone. From the opening moments, a shimmering glow of synths unfurls, creating a sonic landscape that feels both expansive and intimate.

The arrangement is meticulously layered, with pulsing rhythms that ebb and flow, reminiscent of the introspective yet energetic vibes found in the works of artists like Caribou or Four Tet. Yet, there’s an unmistakable individuality to Akanimo’s approach that sets him apart, harnessing influences while carving out a distinct identity.

Akanimo’s soundscape draws upon a variety of textures, intertwining bright arpeggios and enveloping basslines in a way that provides sense of buoyancy. The production is clean, allowing each element to breathe, enhancing the track’s atmospheric quality. Moments of tension and release are masterfully executed, leading to a chorus that feels almost euphoric, as if inviting the listener to ascend into a state of blissful transcendence.

Lyrically, the track flirts with themes of escapism and introspection. Phrases like “let the waves wash over me” encapsulate a longing for serenity in a chaotic world, resonating deeply with contemporary listeners navigating their own challenges. This emotional core is a reminder of how music often serves as a refuge, a theme that reverberates through much of today’s electronic landscape.

In a world saturated with sounds vying for attention, Akanimo’s track stands out as a fresh perspective on electronic music, merging rhythmic vitality with an introspective ethos.

As listeners seek solace in the noise, “Relaxation Electric” offers a timely reminder of the power of music to both energize and soothe, making it a noteworthy addition to the electronic canon.

Listen to Relaxation Electric by Akanimo

Hip/Hop

[Alternative] SavenEXE – Stick to Me

Posted by TMN Staff - October 23, 2025

Genre: alternative

A fresh, enveloping take on an alternative soundscape , SavenEXE’s “Stick to Me” wraps listeners in an atmospheric embrace, where ethereal synths intertwine with a pulsing undercurrent that suggests both intimacy and distance. The track opens with a shimmering haze, gradually layering textures that evoke a digital landscape where human emotion and technology converge in a dance of longing.

As the track unfolds, SavenEXE crafts a soundscape that feels both expansive and claustrophobic, mirroring the complexities of modern relationships. The production is slick, with a meticulous attention to detail that allows each electronic pulse to resonate. Moments of tension and release are expertly woven into the arrangement, creating an ebb and flow that pulls the listener deeper into its world. There’s a palpable sense of urgency to the beat, underscored by the way the melodies soar and retreat, much like the push and pull of connection in our digital age.

“Stick to Me” explores themes of attachment and vulnerability, with lyrics that capture the essence of yearning for closeness amid the disconnection often felt in contemporary life. The chorus resonates with a poignant simplicity, reflecting a desire for understanding and togetherness, as SavenEXE invites listeners to confront their own emotional landscapes.

The track’s production is slick, with a meticulous attention to detail that allows each electronic pulse to resonate.

In its emotional core, the song recalls the introspective tendencies of artists like James Blake, who similarly navigates the intersection of electronic sound and personal narrative. SavenEXE stands apart, however, by integrating a brighter sonic palette that evokes a sense of hope amidst the uncertainty. This duality, a search for connection within the confines of a digital existence, resonates widely in today’s landscape, where technology both connects and isolates.

The cultural implications of “Stick to Me” extend beyond mere sound, as it taps into a collective consciousness grappling with the effects of digital communication on human interaction. In an age where relationships are often mediated by screens, Saven.EXE offers a reflective commentary on the nature of attachment in a world that can feel as ephemeral as the notes themselves.

With a growing following on platforms like Spotify, Saven.EXE is carving out a niche that promises to bridge the gap between electronic experimentation and heartfelt expression. “Stick to Me” is not just a track; it’s an invitation to engage with the delicate balance of human connection in the modern era, artfully crafted within a vibrant electronic framework.

Listen to Stick to Me by SavenEXE:

Alternative/Rock

[Alternative] Guaya – SLEEPY KITTY (stares into the void as i stare within)

Posted by TMN Staff - October 23, 2025

Genre: alternative

In “SLEEPY KITTY (stares into the void as i stare within),” Guaya invites listeners on a mesmerizing journey through the corridors of introspection. With a sound that flutters somewhere between dream pop and the ethereal edges of heavier alternative, this track envelops the listener in a soft haze, where every note feels like a tender echo of vulnerability. The atmospheric production, layered with delicate textures, crafts an immersive space that reflects both the title’s contemplative nature and a broader existential inquiry.

The arrangement unfolds gently, with subtle shifts that evoke a sense of drifting. The vocals, floating above the lush sonic backdrop, possess a haunting quality—each phrase delivered with a whisper of longing, as if the artist is grappling with the weight of their own thoughts. Lines like “staring into the void” encapsulate a profound sense of searching, a theme resonant with anyone who has felt lost in their own mind. This lyrical exploration is reminiscent of the introspective musings found in the works of artists like Sufjan Stevens, who similarly weave personal narratives into richly textured soundscapes.

This lyrical exploration is reminiscent of the introspective musings found in the works of artists like Sufjan Stevens.

As the song progresses, the emotional weight intensifies, revealing layers that speak to the collective human experience. Guaya’s ability to balance melancholy with moments of hopeful clarity is striking. The chorus, which swells with a bittersweet energy, suggests that while darkness may loom, there is always a flicker of light waiting to be discovered. This duality resonates deeply in today’s cultural landscape, where many find solace in art that reflects their own struggles and aspirations.

The production, while minimalist, allows for a spaciousness that invites contemplation. There’s a certain rawness in Guaya’s delivery that feels both intimate and universal; it’s a reminder of the fragility of our own thoughts as we navigate the complexities of modern life. This track does not rush to provide answers; instead, it lingers in the ambiguity, encouraging the listener to embrace their own reflections.

With a modest following on platforms like Spotify, Guaya’s artistry resonates with those who appreciate the subtleties of indie music and the emotional depth it can convey. “SLEEPY KITTY” is a testament to the power of vulnerability in art, a gentle reminder that even in the face of uncertainty, there is beauty in introspection.

Listen to SLEEPY KITTY by Guaya

Alternative/Rock

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