Unplugged Gems: Discover the Hidden Treasures in February 2025's Guitar World Editors’ Picks!
0 reactions
1 year ago
Beatbounty
The moment we’ve all been waiting for has finally arrived! After an incredibly busy few months surrounding the holiday season, we are excited to announce our triumphant return. With the chaos of Black Friday, Christmas, and NAMM behind us, we’re diving back into our beloved tradition of discovering new music with a fresh edition of Editors’ Picks, complete with insightful write-ups.
And what a time to return! The past month has seen a flurry of remarkable music releases, and we’ve curated them all into a specially designed Spotify playlist (embedded below).Additionally, we’re shining a spotlight on some standout singles, delving into the tones, techniques, and songwriting that have ignited our passion for the guitar.
Prepare for a diverse array of sounds, from chart-topping indie rock and intricate progressive fingerstyle to heavy stoner and groove metal reminiscent of Mastodon. We’re thrilled to be back in action!
michael Astley-Brown – Editor-in-Chief
Buddy Guy & Switchfoot – Last Man Standing (official Audio) – YouTube
Watch On
In a collaboration that might not be as unexpected as David Gilmour’s appearance with Body Count last year, Buddy Guy joining forces with post-grunge veterans Switchfoot is certainly one of the standout moments of 2025. The track Last Man standing showcases a driving, foot-tapping riff complemented by the legendary bluesman’s electrifying leads, proving that at 88, his talent remains as sharp as ever.
On the modern blues front, I’m also captivated by the latest release from the up-and-coming Jack moore, son of the iconic Gary Moore. His collaboration with vocalist Quentin Kovalsky exudes a laid-back confidence with its nostalgic chord progression, but the solo is a fiery display of skill that could ignite a passion for guitar in anyone. He’s inherited his father’s signature vibrato, and while rockstar offspring are common these days, Jack brings more than just a famous name to the table.
Two-Headed Trout / The Demon of Unreality Limping Like A Dog (Official Music Video) – YouTube
Watch On
On the heavier side of the spectrum, I’ve been captivated by the latest track from the Callous Daoboys, which fuses aggressive metalcore riffs with the progressive post-hardcore sound reminiscent of Dance Gavin Dance. The song,titled two-Headed Trout,is a sonic powerhouse. And speaking of trout, the instrumental heavyweights Pelican have just released Cascading Crescent, the first single from their long-awaited album, marking the return of founding guitarist Laurent Schroeder-Lebec after a decade-long hiatus. This track is a blend of stoner and groove metal, showcasing a chugging style akin to mastodon, delivered with impeccable precision. While many may try to replicate their riff-centric approach, none can match Pelican’s sheer power.
Lastly, I want to highlight London-based funk artist and Fender Next Class of 2024 graduate Maya Delilah, who has just released the funkiest single of the year, Squeeze. Driven by an irresistibly smooth bassline, the track takes a turn when the guitar kicks in, revealing a wiry fuzz tone that channels the spirit of St. Vincent and Prince, complete with harmonics and pick slides that punctuate the sound. It’s playful, bursting with character, and a refreshing departure from the mainstream trends that often flood our feeds. And that’s what makes it all the more special.
this month has been a whirlwind of musical releases,and it seems like every day brings something exceptional to my inbox. The variety of genres represented is truly notable.
Superheaven: A Comeback to Remember
First up, let’s talk about Superheaven, a band that blends grunge influences with alt-rock. They are gearing up to release their first full-length album in ten years this April, and their journey has been anything but ordinary.
After a period of sporadic activity, their 2013 track Youngest Daughter unexpectedly went viral on tiktok, racking up over 100 million streams on Spotify and attracting a wave of new fans. Their latest single, Cruel Times, from the upcoming self-titled album, is bound to have you rummaging through your closet for that old flannel shirt. However, to label Superheaven merely as grunge revivalists woudl be an oversimplification.
Their sound offers a little something for everyone: palm-muted chugs, a whirling solo perfect for air guitar enthusiasts, and, of course, another massive riff. But as the saying goes, it’s all about the songwriting, and the catchy chorus of Cruel Times is sure to win over even more fans.
Tash Sultana: A Versatile Force
We’re no strangers to Tash Sultana, but their new single, Milk & Honey, showcases an incredible range of guitar skills. If you’re in the mood for reggae, check out those crisp upstrokes. for a taste of Khruangbin-inspired funk with a surf twist, you won’t be disappointed. And if you’re just looking for a captivating solo, Sultana delivers a masterclass in phrasing and dynamics.
Laura Jane Grace: Punk’s Resilient Voice
Shifting gears to punk, we have the ever-inspiring Laura Jane Grace. The infectious riff from Against Me!’s True Trans Soul Rebel remains one of my favorites from the 2010s, and her new single, Your God (God’s Dick), features another equally compelling riff that kicks off with a choir.
Other Noteworthy Releases
This month also brought us gems like Room on the porch by taj Mahal and Keb’ Mo (TajMo), a delightful acoustic blues track that feels like a warm embrace. Takuro Okada’s stunning instrumental piece, The Room, and Nels Cline’s avant-jazz offering, Slipping Into Something, are also worth mentioning.
Matt Owen – Senior Staff Writer
Sam Fender – Little Bit Closer (Official Lyric video) – YouTube
Watch On
Chris Buck: A Master of Dynamics
in the realm of guitar mastery, Chris Buck’s band Cardinal Black has just released a live version of Holding My Breath. Few contemporary guitarists exhibit the dynamic range and melodic finesse that Buck possesses. This track highlights his rhythmic single-note accents, intricate embellishments, and a blistering solo that I can only aspire to replicate.
Ichika Nito: pushing Boundaries
On the other end of the spectrum, we have VOID, the latest nylon-string masterpiece from fingerstyle prodigy Ichika Nito. If the opening ten seconds don’t leave you in awe, you might be made of tougher stuff than I am. I found myself needing a moment to recover after my first listen.
Honorable Mentions
Other noteworthy tracks this month include Delete Ya by Djo, also known as Joe keery from Stranger Things, who is on track to release what could be his best work yet. Additionally, Forever In Our Hearts by Paul Gilbert’s Mr. big marks the conclusion of their impressive 35-year career.
Janelle Borg – Staff Writer
bon Iver – Everything Is Peaceful Love (Official Video) – YouTube
Watch On
Bon Iver – Everything Is Peaceful love (Official Video) – YouTube
Watch On
Exploring New Sounds: A Month of Musical Discoveries
after an exhilarating Robert Stillman and Tom Skinner concert I attended recently, coupled with a few weeks spent experimenting with various guitars in the studio, it’s clear that this month has been a rich tapestry of musical experiences.From diving into Sabrina Carpenter’s catchy track Espresso—which I can confirm is indeed an earworm—to exploring the depths of lesser-known tracks that February has to offer, I’ve uncovered some hidden gems amidst the flood of new releases.
Bon Iver: A Warm Embrace in Sound
This month, I feel like I truly discovered Bon Iver, notably with his soothing track Everything is Peaceful Love. This song feels like a comforting hug from an old friend, featuring heartfelt lyrics, pedal steel guitar that blends seamlessly with warm electronic pads, and a neo-soul vibe that enriches the harmony of the vocals. It’s the ideal tune to brighten up these long, dreary winter days.
Darkside: A Return to Experimental Roots
In a nostalgic return, Darkside has released Nothing, and it’s as avant-garde as ever. I first encountered Darkside through their track Paper Trails, spending countless hours trying to replicate the reverb-laden guitar that defines the latter half of that song. Their new track, Heavy is Good For This, immediately caught my attention, showcasing guitars that weave in and out like a narrative thread, supporting haunting rhythms, distorted vocals, and an eerie atmosphere that permeates the entire album.
Los Pirañas: Pioneering Avant-latin Sounds
Colombian avant-Latin group Los Pirañas are making waves in the instrumental, psych-leaning music scene, which is gaining traction even in mainstream circles, as evidenced by Khruangbin’s recent Grammy nomination for Best New Artist. However, Los pirañas’ music is characterized by spontaneity and boldness, as demonstrated in their latest release, Despectiva caridad. They draw inspiration from Latin American musical styles while infusing their unique, off-kilter stamp.
Piers Faccini and Ballaké Sissoko: A Mesmerizing Collaboration
To wrap things up, I stumbled upon an album that instantly captivated me: Our Calling by Piers Faccini and Ballaké Sissoko. This album features a stunning interplay between guitar and kora, a traditional West African string instrument. The track Mournful Moon,steeped in desert blues,exemplifies this virtuosic collaboration. With its intricate layers and profound meaning, I can confidently say this is an album I will revisit time and again.
Unplugged Gems: Discover the Hidden Treasures in February 2025’s Guitar World Editors’ Picks!
Unplugged Gems: Discover the Hidden Treasures in February 2025’s Guitar World Editors’ Picks!
February 2025: A Month of musical Revelation
February 2025 has proven to be a treasure trove for guitar enthusiasts, with a plethora of new releases that showcase both emerging and established artists. This month’s Guitar World Editors’ Picks highlights some of the most exciting tracks that deserve your attention. From soulful ballads to electrifying riffs, these selections are sure to inspire your next jam session.
Featured Artists and Tracks
Here’s a closer look at some of the standout artists and their tracks featured in this month’s picks:
Artist
Track
Genre
Highlights
Superheaven
Cruel Times
Alt-Rock
Catchy chorus, nostalgic vibes
Tash Sultana
Milk & honey
Indie/Funk
Versatile guitar work, storytelling solo
Laura Jane Grace
Your God (God’s Dick)
Punk
irresistible riffs, powerful lyrics
Darkside
Nothing
Experimental
Haunting rhythms, distorted vocals
Los Pirañas
Despectiva caridad
Avant-Latin
Spontaneous and daring sound
Piers Faccini & Ballaké Sissoko
Mournful Moon
World Music
Mesmerizing guitar and kora interplay
Benefits of Exploring New Music
Diving into new music can have numerous benefits for both your mental and emotional well-being. Here are a few reasons why you should explore the hidden gems of February 2025:
Inspiration: Discovering new sounds can spark creativity and inspire your own musical endeavors.
Connection: Music has the power to connect people. Sharing new finds with friends can enhance your social interactions.
Emotional Release: Music can be a therapeutic outlet, helping to process emotions and experiences.
Skill Development: Learning new songs and techniques can improve your guitar skills and broaden your musical repertoire.
Practical Tips for Discovering Hidden Gems
Finding new music can sometimes feel overwhelming. Here are some practical tips to help you uncover those hidden treasures:
Utilize Streaming Services: Platforms like Spotify and Apple Music often have curated playlists that highlight new releases. Check out their “Discover weekly” or “New Music friday” playlists.
Follow Music Blogs: Websites like Pitchfork and NME regularly feature new artists and tracks. Subscribing to their newsletters can keep you updated.
Engage with Social Media: Follow artists and music influencers on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. They frequently enough share their latest finds and recommendations.
attend Live Shows: Local gigs and open mic nights are great opportunities to discover new talent. Plus, you’ll be supporting your local music scene!
Case Studies: Artists Making Waves
Let’s take a closer look at a few artists from this month’s picks who are making significant strides in the music industry:
Superheaven
After a decade-long hiatus, Superheaven is back with their new album, and their single Cruel Times has already garnered significant attention. The track’s nostalgic sound resonates with fans of the 90s grunge era, while also appealing to a new generation of listeners. Their resurgence is a testament to the enduring power of authentic songwriting.
Tash Sultana
Tash Sultana continues to push the boundaries of genre with their latest single,Milk & Honey. Known for their one-person band performances, Sultana’s ability to blend reggae, funk, and rock elements showcases their versatility and unique sound. This track is a perfect example of how modern artists can draw from various influences to create something fresh and exciting.
First-Hand Experience: My Musical Journey
as a passionate guitarist, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring many of the tracks featured in this month’s picks. One standout experience was attending a live performance by Tash Sultana. Witnessing their unbelievable guitar skills and stage presence was nothing short of inspiring. It reminded me of the importance of live music in connecting with artists and their work.
Join the Beatbounty Community
If you’re passionate about music and want to share your own discoveries, consider creating an account on the Beatbounty platform. here, you can submit ads for your music, connect with other artists, and explore a community dedicated to celebrating musical talent.
Conclusion
February 2025 has brought forth a wealth of musical treasures that are just waiting to be discovered. By exploring these hidden gems, you can enhance your musical journey and connect with a vibrant community of fellow music lovers. So grab your guitar, dive into these tracks, and let the music inspire you!
