February 14th

Snappy & snotty punk band Talk Me Off release Cursed in 2020, a vibrant punk record brimming with societal critiques and personal angst that add to the gritty sound and rebellious spirit.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Post-punk pop stylists Positive No release their final album, Kyanite, in 2020, a snug fusion of agitated guitars and flaring rhythms that make clever use of its expansive space.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Americana riot grrrl Sally Rose releases Tread Light in 2021, a reverent roots homecoming accentuated by incisive observations and blazing melodies from the mind of a true sonic force.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Heavy hardcore tyrants Mutually Assured Destruction releases Fever Dream in 2020, an intense record that brutalizes foreboding atmospheres with a powerful sound incited by past influences and refined by a modern edge.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Richmond rap label Gritty City Records releases Pleasure Seeker in 2014, a salacious Valentine’s Day present for boom bap lovers featuring label cohorts Johnny Ciggs, Profound79, Fan Ran, Ant The Symbol, and more!
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Screamo luminaries Humanitarian Deficit and Transgression release their split tape in 2023, an impassioned showcase of edgy hardcore that, despite its brevity, delivers a plentiful serving of raucous intensity.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Luxuriant deep house producer Jame Moorfield releases The Sensation in 2019, a four-part electronic promenade through elastic soundscapes, brimming with buoyant wonder and adorned with abundant talent.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shimmering shoegaze ensemble Bellweather release their self-titled record in 2023, a swirling concoction of hazy textures intricately detailed by sublime guitars, tense rhythms, and misty vocals.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Resonant punk band Strawberry Moon release their self-titled debut record in 2017, a striking bedroom pop album recorded on a cracked & dying laptop that establishes the graceful framework for their future piercing sound.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Musing indietronic quartet Mon Chere release their self-titled record in 2020, an atmospheric distillation of post-rock subtleties, ambient expansiveness, and polished avant-pop elements that captivate and rejuvenate.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 13th

Hip-hop legend Mad Skillz releases his debut album, From Where???, in 1996, a landmark release that introduces his razor-sharp lyricism, rich in clever wordplay and nods to hip-hop culture, over top engaging instrumentals.
Spotify

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Decorative math rock daubers Colin Phils release e,r,som,sa… in 2016, a shimmering and incisive exploration of emotion recorded in China that will excite indie progressives and enthrall curious sound tourists.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chiptune artisan F1NG3RS releases VGM in 2015, an intrepid release that reimagines video game melodies as various genre music, showcasing the influential power of the often overlooked 8-bit style.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Idiosyncratic hardcore group Fried Egg release Square One in 2019, an aggressive detour from straight punk rage into nihilistic no wave that focuses more on tense anxiety than foaming rage.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Enthralling rock trio Plastic Nancy release Last Of The Electric Flowers in 2020, a chromatic melodic mosaic of dreamy psych rock that moves through marbled textures with ease and wonder.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Crafty producer DJ Mordecai releases Dust That Collected Beats, Vol. 5 in 2023, a deep dive through the archives of a prolific groove manipulator that unearths 75 (!!!) bumping tracks.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Noise hoarder Trashaholic releases their self-titled record in 2015, a minimalistic interpretation of dissonance that centers on wayward tones and rhythms, delving into the unpredictable space between them.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ambient jazz outfit Organica releases 2.13.2009 in 2009, an audacious blend of neo-bop expressions filtered through the lenses of funk, electronica, and soul, resulting in a captivating sound.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Experimental black metal act Derelict releases And Thus Do We Reach The Stars in 2020, a four-part exploration of cerebral contemplation that employs extended tonal corrosion to navigate the intricacies of existence.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Electrofunk artist Dreaddy Bear releases Stoned Ape in 2023, a playful but forceful release full of churning instrumentals that dart between trip hop and dubstep, all garnished with a touch of reggae flair.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 12th

Grimy rock act LJ & The Sleeze release Stay Sleezy in 2022, a hi-fi reimagination of his first two releases that polishes the mangy melodies while still retaining their gritty charm.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Southern river rat S. Preston Duncan releases The Sound In This Time Of Being in 2020, a cunning collection of experimental spoken word music accompanied by an anthology of mesmerizing incantatory poetry.
Spotify“>Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Slick MC Flip Barrison releases Intuition in 2023, a seamless exhibition of lyrical prowess and rhythmic finesse that encapsulates the invigorating essence of authentic hip-hop.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Crafty emo duo Happy Case Scenario releases Make America Sad Again in 2021, a fiery record that embodies passionate pop punk, offering a melodic punch of emotional vigor and witty spunk.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Straight edge malcontents Break Away release Live On Axe To Grind in 2019, a ferocious set featured on the influential hardcore podcast that showcases the rowdy quintet’s sharp sound.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sly art rock trio Beauty Czars release Matinee in 2023, a daring release that distills avant expression into a sound that blurs the boundaries between auditory and visual realms.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lo-fi metal act Dystropium release Disastrophy in 2010, a sludgy collection of dissonant soundscapes constructed with mechanical precision, creating an atmosphere of industrial thrash.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grindcore trio Meth Lab release their demo tape in 2012, a growling detonation of trouncing hardcore that quickly incinerates eardrums with blasts of sonic aggression and ferocious intensity.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sonorous producer Swellthy releases The Deli Tape in 2019, a savory beat tape that draws influence from beat-making icon J Dilla while exploring a distinctive and personal sonic identity.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Doom punks In Battle release Live MMXIX in 2021, a raw soundboard extraction from a crusty and clamorous live set that darts between commanding metal and relentless hardcore.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 11th

Venturous hip-hop artist Lil Ugly Mane releases his debut album, Mista Thug Isolation, in 2012, a landmark underground hip-hop record that blends daring beats and sharp bars with bold absurdism.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gripping indie quartet Ages releases Must Be Nice in 2022, an intricately tense record that delves into 21st-century mental fatigue through the prism of exquisitely textured post-punk.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Richmond sonic visionary Tennishu releases The Color Link in 2022, a splashy snapshot of drifting vibes, frantic and pensive, born from fourth-wave quarantine.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Experimental hip-hop artist 38KEA releases Cold Feet, Numb Ankles in 2017, a sprawling digital romp that concludes with a collaborative section with fellow Richmond musician Leone.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Punk standard-bearers Sick Bags releases Lost Tracks in 2019, a collection of three previously un-released tracks that proudly flaunt their glitzy, trash, and raw sound.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Alternative hip-hop artist P.T. Burnem releases Ornithopter in 2012, a peculiar record that collides fluid bars against intriguing textures to create a riveting sound.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ambient wanderers Christian Brady & Gregory Darden release Red Tape in 2022, an immersive record guiding listeners through lush pastoral haze with sonic wonder.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aggressive grit purveyors Savage Attack release their demo tape in 2013, a confrontational onslaught of serrated riffs, pounding rhythms, and ferocious vocals.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Precise groove crafter Aries The Legend releases Established In 1971 in 2022, a dazzling beat tape that upholds the legacy boom bap while embracing modern trends and innovation.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dusty loop crafter Aidan Giuffre releases Mystery Jams in 2019, a collection of Tascam beats sketched out to near completion with sly samples and enticing grooves.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 10th

Dynamic folk musician Saw Black releases Azalea Days on Crystal Pistol Records in 2017, an introspective exploration of the complexities of love and loss with a lo-fi aesthetic that enhances its raw and authentic feel.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vivid lo-fi punks Beat Awfuls release PAWS in 2023, a tumultuous journey through heavy power-pop emotions that seamlessly blends infectious jangly hooks with poignant lyrics.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VCU Organization The Horn releases Live In RVA Vol. 4 in 2013, a compilation of live recordings from local venues featuring Fight Cloud, Furious George, Folk The System, Way, Shape Or Form, and more.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hardcore hoodlums Dead And Dreaming releases Wildlife on Edgewood Records in 2017, a searing onslaught of visceral intensity and sonic ferocity that bullies with resonance.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lively string quartet Dalton Dash release Ass, Cash, Dash Or Grass in 2018, an animated mosaic blending playful bluegrass, intimate folk, and spirited hoedowns.
Spotify

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Post-hardcore ruffians Vulcanite release Everything We Once Knew in 2022, a sonic forge of unbridled potency and assertive grandeur fueled by intense musicality and emotion.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hard rock outfit Crushing Yellow Sun release Throwback in 2020, an electric haze of sweltering sound that ignites a fiery fusion of blistering riffs and pulsating rhythms.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Divergent MC James Dangle releases Read A Book in 2014, a transcendental hip-hop record that pushes sharp lyrical skill through gauzy and ethereal soundscapes.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Progressive pathfinders Inherit My Breaking Wind release The World Went Silent in 2022, a heavy twenty-two minute sonic odyssey split into two riveting sections that resonate with clamor.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Virginia troubadour E.R. Watt releases Richmond Demos in 2013, an angled acoustic album infusing sardonic wit and keen observation into unadorned bardic expression.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 9th

Indie stunners Houdan The Mystic release their debut album, Archer’s Jamboree, in 2012, a dynamic record that artfully blends experimental melodies with sincere lyricism.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Psychedelic doom augurs SIBYL releases The Magic Isn’t Real in 2019, an enchanting peer into occult ambiance that features intoxicating vocals drifting over mescaline-tinged sonic landscapes.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Acid garage band Clyde And The Nightswingers release The Enormous Midnight And Nine Other Nocturnes in 2021, a striking 1967 record brought back to life by local music researchers.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cosmic folk gazer Christian Luke Brady releases Third Eye Contact (2006-2008) in 2008, a daring record that carefully balances progressive songwriting and experimental performance.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Surging MC Cadillac CAT releases 4 No Reason in 2017 and also the Cadillac Cat LP in 2018 under the Soulful Division moniker, a recording project with slick artist Wise Inquisition.
4 No Reason on Bandcamp | Cadillac CAT on Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jones/Kuhl/Harris/Clarke/Pharr/Parker release 08.06.2013 in 2021, a live recording of two expansive free jazz pieces featuring an all-star line-up of local sonic virtuosos.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Musing hip-hop artist Hernbean5150 releases Anatomy in 2023, a dazzling slide through soulful observations and jazzy nuances that excites and inspires.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Experimental artist Kamika releases Andysaid in 2014, an assortment of errant recordings darting between familiar genre hallmarks with restless skill.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Melodic merc Messy Bird releases Nest in 2012, a rich collection of sketches and exercises crafted for a publishing company but worthy of a cherished record collection.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mottled musician Robin Payne releases Figures in 2020, a vivid exploration of melancholy that descends gracefully into an inviting abyss of experimental rock and progressive soul.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 8th

Vaporwave artisan FM Skyline releases Advanced Memory Suite in 2019, a vivid exploration into ambient textures that yields a relaxing yet invigorating sonic experience.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Alt-pop outfit No Moniker release Private Prophet in 2019, a dynamic surge of melodic reflections on generational divides and harmonic dissections of existentialism.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hip-hop visionaries NDEFRU and Ohbliv releases Foreign Local in 2019, a fluid deliberation on displaced urban loyalty that showcases bold rhymes and vibrant beats.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rootsy folk group Jonathan Vassar & The Speckled Bird release Signs & Wonders in 2011, a nimble assortment of immersive soundscapes that traverse roots rock within chamber and rustic settings.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Atmospheric gazers October Second release Flesh in 2019, a collection of burrowing soundscapes that reveal the clear emotional depth within hazy ambient compositions.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Snarling grindcore act Hybrid Warfare release Future Violence in 2018, a breakneck barrage of relentless sonic ferocity that double-downs on intense skill and visceral vision.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Whimsical melodist Wells Hanley release All 3 EPs: The Fire, Love Songs, Sun Inside in 2015, a shifty three-part sketch of quirky expressions and infectious melodies drawn from various influences.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Digital warbler Organica release 2/8/2011 in 2011, a lively dance through electronic jazz, buoyant ambient, and grounded avant explorations that invite listeners on a genre-blurring journey.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

First-wave garage rockers The Poison Ivy League release their demo tape in 2016, a fun and compelling send-up of ’60s electric pop that’s aptly stylized as “maximum rock & soul mayhem.”
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rock resonators Silversmiths release Andy Hall Hit Machine in 2019, a lively compilation of folk-rock covers that highlights the inherent creativity of home recordings.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 7th

Post-rock enchanters Fight Cloud releases Thoughts Aligned in 2020, an intricate fusion of mood, melody, and sonic craftmanship that enlightens with its atmospheric brilliance.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mutant Academy docents Henny L.O. & Sycho Sid release Greystone in 2020, a dynamic hip-hop record propelled by its soulful samples and innovative prowess that leaves a lasting impression.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spry pop-punk trio Bashful release Driving in 2020, a sprightly and energetic album that encapsulates the essence of pop-punk in a concise and exhilarating twenty minute package.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mercurial rock act TUNGS release Not For Grandma in 2014, a tempestuous sonic odyssey blowing its forceful psych-sludge sound through tattered soundscapes.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fuzzy garage gurus Leach releases A Machine, It Seems in 2020, a progressive rock endeavor from a band proudly embracing its influences while forging a distinct and innovative path.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hypnotic genre splicers Space Koi release Brainwash Box in 2020, a layered musical kaleidoscope of psych-jazz and ska-dub, pulsating with a twirling sense of direction and an infectious spirit of enjoyment.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Doom metal outfit I Am The Liquor releases 7 Days Of Smoke in 2017, an intoxicating swill of versatile heaviness that packs a thick riff-driven sound into dire landscapes.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chambered indie rock act Little Smoke releases Bandit in 2014, a burrowing plunge into rich soundscapes inspired by pastoral folk tones and polished with the atmospheric haze of noisy alternative.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Crossover dictators Outshined release their demo tape in 2015, a refined snapshot of a frantic sound delivered at a manic pace with sharp ferocity.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wavy garage quartet Ulmeyda release Powerful Society Demo in 2020, a lively record that charms with its pop harmonies and surf sensibilities while exciting with its refined sonic craftsmanship.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 6th

Brusque MC Granada releases Dark Dynasty in 2020, a crowing EP that exudes confident lyricism and intricate beats, delivering sharp resonance and compelling vitality.
Spotify

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Couches and Vagrancy release their split record in 2013, a whirlwind emo discharge that encapsulates the depth of a full album’s worth of lyrical and musical expression in just three bold songs.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Enterprising producer Conscious Beatz releases Beat Terrestrial in 2012, a pulsating instrumental romp that splices vintage tones and novel grooves into a consuming listening experience.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Idyllic stringband Sturgeon City releases Those Green Shores in 2017, a pastoral jaunt combines traditional folk charm with sharp contemporary skill, creating a harmonious fusion of past and present.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gilded hip-hop artist Topaz releases Alienated in 2019, a canny record that delves into deep, personal introspection while surrounded by plush tones and ornate soundscapes.
Soundcloud

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Experimental artist 7V D E V R releases Sublime Prehension in 2015, a whimsical exploration of contemporary plunderphonics, revealing the expertise required to breathe new life into buried musical treasures.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Metal punks Vulcanite releases In Gold in 2022, a pounding patrol of core heavy sounds that forges molten riffs and blistering rhythms into a sonic crucible of raw power and aggressive splendor.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Caustic hardcore punks Dismissed releases their demo tape in 2013, a three-song onslaught of serrated riffs, bellicose vocals, and pummeling rhythms that astounds and alarms.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Indie five-piece Skindles releases By Hippies, For Hipsters in 2011, a satirical exploration of both classic and contemporary counter-culture, stemming from a creative burst during a 24-hour songwriting session.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jawing rapper Roach2x releases Bullet Case in 2023, a gritty mixtape that highlights a bold style slicing through distorted bass notes and energetic percussion with grimy precision.
Soundcloud

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 5th

Twee rioters Atta Girl releases Fuck The Sun in 2016, a sparkling melodic punch of flippant spunk packed in a tight garage sound with catchy flourishes.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Intriguing guitarist Alan Good Parker releases Fakie in 2021, a seamless tapestry of stringed compositions drifting through jazz, folk, and country-western landscapes with effortless melody and honed skill.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Textural electrorock mavens Opin releases Media & Memory Remixed in 2021, a welcome revisit to their 2020 record featuring striking reimaginations orchestrated by FM Skyline, Gardener, Skinquarter, and more.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Electrofunk collective Former Champions release Harbinger in 2013, a piercing blend of jazzy synthrock filled with infectious grooves and vibrant instrumental interplay.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vibrant producer Profound79 releases Thug Library Vol. 4 in 2017, a dense beat tape full of rhythmic magnetism that slide out of their gritty foundation into a realm of captivating curiosity.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sound designer Baccharis releases Down From The Cloud, Singles Vol. 6 in 2023, a presentation of autonomous tracks captured in 2021 that illuminate his expansive creative vision and deft artistry.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Genre defier Airport releases Black Pilled in 2022, a mind-opening album riding the cresting waves of diverse genres that quickly wash into new sonic boundaries of equally intrepid & erratic structure.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cyber metal groovers Hectic Polarity releases Hit The Pavement in 2021, a polished demo that showcases the decaying convergence of nu metal, thrash metal, and beatdown punk.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Macabre garage act Wreckage Glider releases My Head Is A Hearse in 2023, an ashen record that dutifully drags goth rock through four decades of metal, punk, and indie.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sardonic grindcore group Cornbread releases Live Indonesia 2002 in 2016, a blistering and irreverent record that borrows from Sega heroes, Marvel foes, and Fox cartoons, featuring future members of Killing Pace.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 4th

Poignant powerhouse Hotspit release Memory Of A Mirror Image in 2023, a masterpiece in musical expression that skillfully employs cathartic tones and cerebral lyricism, delivering a moving collection of spectacular songs.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Resonant wordsmith Michael Millions releases his second album, Ghost Of 20 Dollar Bills, in 2014, a bold, introspective record that demonstrates the inherent artistic richness of hip-hop through raw narratives and powerful beats.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mathcore rascals Black Matter Device release Autonomous Weapons in 2022, a chaotic concoction of metalcore, jazzcore, and a dozen other manic “core” sub-genres, solidifying their status as heavyweights in the hardcore scene.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hip-hop aces Koncept Jack$on & Unlucky Bastards release Deluxe Schematics in 2017, a brisk record that provides more lyrical punch and rhythmic magnetism in a half hour than many achieve in lengthy two-hour compilations.
Spotify

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sonic alchemist Samuel Goff releases Transmissions on Cacophonous Revival Recordings in 2020, a multifaceted sonic trek through irregular styles, climbing from sparse minimalism up to distressed noise.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunny artisan Ty Sorrell releases LongLeafPalms in 2022, a pensive hip-hop exploration into the mind of an innovative musician shaping his own sonic identity in a vibrant scene.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Heavy multi-instrumentalist Erik Larson releases Everything Breaks in 2022, an assertive sludge punk record that uses an all-star line-up of guest drummers to direct its sonic sprawl.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vibrant MC 3waySlim releases Golden Child in 2022, an auric hip-hop showcase featuring regal rhymes dancing over carefully curated samples sourced from meticulous crate-diving, lending the album a timeless charm.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ambient Americana troupe Big Heart Collective releases Meditation Suite II in 2022, a daring fusion of roots rock and worldly folk that effortlessly transcends traditional genre boundaries.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sonorous producer Swellthy releases Share The Swellth Vol. 1 in 2014, an eleven minute beat tape that soundly lives up to the musical mission statement of mental, physical, and spiritual prosperity.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 3rd

Crossover thrash icons Iron Reagan release their third album, Crossover Ministry, in 2017, a potent blend of punk and metal that captivates with its musically gritty equilibrium and a lyrical fusion of anger and sarcasm.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Punk melodists Dead Format releases Write Your Own Story in 2019, a searing album that skillfully navigates the space between hardcore and pop punk, thanks to an instantly captivating emo compass.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Psych-grunge five-piece Baby Help Me Forget releases Live From The Goodbye Sprout Show on Cherub Records in 2012, a live record that captures the incendiary style of their mottled rock sound.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Venturous hip-hop artist Lil Ugly Mane (under the moniker ‘various’) releases Register in 2017, an experimental compilation of noise exercises, exploratory compositions, and “non-music” sketches.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vaulting jazz quintet Vanilla Summit releases their self-titled record in 2017, a smooth yet cogent record that gracefully maneuvers intricate harmonies to deliver an exciting array of instrumental marvel.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hip-hop virtuoso Bradford Thomas releases Bradventure 5 in 2023, an exhilarating exhibition of beatmaking, sampling, & looping that solidifies the crafty producer’s standing as “the man with the golden groove.”
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mescalin garage rockers Psychic Idols release Spoonbender in 2018, a crunchy lo-fi record that dresses up a gritty sound with plenty of electrically vibrant textures.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gauzy electronic artist Wafers 3D release Musicorum in 2020, an exuberant album highlighting a continuously morphing sound that skillfully decorates the realms of vaporwave and IDM.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Roaming DJ Yogamuffin release Marble Fronts in 2017, a seamless fifty minute groove through familiar motifs and errant expressions that results in a invigorating rhythmic odyssey.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Slick producer Korporal K release Chasing Stars in 2022, a twinkling hip-hop gaze into enigmatic realms illuminated by the keen lyrical stylings of xyeahmanx.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 2nd

Piercing emo quartet Engine Down releases To Bury Within The Sound in 2000, an evocative exploration of tempered hardcore that uses ambient sounds and intricate melodies as conversant guides.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Prolific hard rock outfit Dead Panda releases Year Of Dead Panda in 2019, a voltaic record that sharpens the feedback fuzz for a potent blend of electrifying riffs and visceral energy.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Brainworms & Dynamite Arrows releases their split record on Rorschach Records in 2008, an idiosyncratic collaboration between two hardcore punk bedlamites delivering a cacophony of rebellious intensity.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Surging lyrical artisan Ro$$eTTi releases Flu Game 3 in 2023, a weaving narrative that triumphs over metaphorical challenges with the finesse and resilience of a clutch hardwood performer.
Soundcloud

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lo-fi wanderer Erik Phillips releases One in 2018, a poignant melodic expression delivered through sliding acoustic strums and tempered backing that immerses listeners in refreshing contemplation.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Digital maestro Chris Farmer releases TOTO 1.0Gpf / 3.8Lpf in 2019, an assemblage of electronic exercises from the turn of the century yielding spastic grooves, intriguing soundscapes, and intuitive mystery.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reverential garage duo The Bon Air Electric releases In Dub in 2023, a loose punk interpretation of dub that pays homage to first-wave icons who wore their unexpected inspirations on their tattered sleeves.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Musing rock act WifiPassword release their demo tape in 2020, a seamless release of inner thoughts set to a restless electric strum that polishes the capricious nature of consciousness.
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Jabbing MC Madam V releases Cypher Sessions in 2022, an effusive compilation of snappy freestyles and roaring statements over rolling beats, all born from the teeming RVA Rap Elite community.
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Passionate folk-rock act The Roadside Angels releases their self-titled record in 2011, a compelling musical journey that revives the mythical highway lore of mid-century art with tender empathy.
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February 1st

Rap titans Noah-O & Big No release Richmond Brave in 2023, an outstanding collaboration anchored by two striking musicians that melds their distinct styles into a cohesive and courageous musical journey.
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Jazz multi-instrumentalist Victor Haskins releases his second album, Showing Up, in 2019, a skillful display featuring his Skein ensemble that effortlessly blends traditional jazz elements with contemporary innovations.
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Masked avant musician Gull releases Skull in 2012, a clear representation of no wave, a musical statement that lives a half-life in the visual space, each visceral in their frenzied resonance.
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Rhapsodic MC Illa Styles releases Art Imitates Life II in 2016, a stomping lyrical march through errant soundscapes and classic beat, earning the moniker claimed by athlete Allen Jones: phenomenal.
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Downbeat maniacs Ordinance release their demo tape in 2023, a turbulent hardcore assault that bombards eardrums with a sonic maelstrom, leaving listeners both wearied and invigorated.
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Snug singer-songwriter Keely Burn releases I’ve Never Been More Aware in 2019, a crisp assortment of endearing melodies relayed through an idiosyncratic vocal tone that’s unpredictable and charming.
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Grime & grind MC Johnny Ciggs releases Hotel Kanade on Gritty City Records in 2019, a dashing album that offers lyrical finesse gliding over sleek production, capturing the essence of polished underground.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Noise peddler Vera releases Level Ultimate on Lustmurder Records in 2023, a corroding collection of bubbling and seething compositions, each a lesson in melodic decay and rhythmic deterioration.
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Electronic artist Severed Skies releases their second album, Dimensions, in 2019, a sprawling array of dazzlng digital soundscapes that are underscored by a sneaky augural murmur.
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Acid tinged alt-rock quartet ExKnives releases Three Curses in 2021, a bold mash-up of grunge and psych that stares into the existential abyss with daring vision.
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January 31st

Eclectic indie-pop auteur Wild Nothing releases Laughing Gas in 2020, an ethereal soundscape that intricately weaves electro-rock and sophisti-pop, showcasing a delicate balance between organic elements and synthetic undertones.
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Power-pop tacticians The Trillions release Superposition in 2015, a crunchy, hook-heavy record that moves the band’s “shred pop” sound into an audacious and substantial realm, infusing the record with a sense of experimental marvel.
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Crafty rock trio Midlife Pilot release Telepathic in 2020, a pensive and profound musical offering that delves into intricate emotions through resonating hooks and piercing lyricism.
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Sage hip-hop artist BlackLiq releases NOW Vol 1 in 2019, kicking off a multi-part series commemorating a decade of impactful hip-hop expression, with each installment brimming with dynamic freestyles and authoritative presence.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rootsy folk group Jonathan Vassar & The Speckled Bird release From The Orchard in 2010, a rich album employing delicate layering to craft a portrait of introspection and contemplation.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Eminent hip-hop orator Monday Night releases 10 Days in 2020, a flawless showcase of the impressive skill and visionary prowess emanating from Richmond collectives Mutant Academy and Scheme Team.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capricious rock band Minimum Balance release their self-titled in 2018, an electric testament to intricate tonalities and harmonious discord that reveal an ethos embodying disparate elements precariously entwined.
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Mutant Academy pundit Henny L.O. releases Evergreen in 2019, an intrepid hip-hop record that offers a plethora of self-reflective verses atop a rich array of lo-fi beats that swell with impactful resonance.
Spotify

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fulminating hellions Shoushitsu release Black Ash on Death Eternal in 2023, a stark delivery of sonic onslaught that blurs the lines between black and death metal with a politically charged punk-rooted edge.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Prescient songwriter Kyle Davis releases Make It Count in 2020, a contemplative exploration of the nuances between the beauty and disappointment inherent in the journey of self-discovery.
Spotify

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

January 30th

Dreamy screamo quintet Swan Of Tuonela releases their self-titled record in 2013, an atmospheric blend of chaotic hardcore and pensive post-rock that embodies the radicalized sentimentality of emoviolence.
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Dynamic garage power trio Venus Guytrap releases The Jell-O Shot in 2016, a lyrically incisive, melodically infectious, and musically impressive three-song record that captures a bold and refreshing sound.
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Surging lyrical artisan Ro$$eTTi releases Je Ne Sais Quoi in 2019, a conversant hip-hop record brimming with rhythmic grace, heavy rhyming skills, and shimmering instrumentals.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Experimental rap group Digital Hell releases Thirty Nights of Violence: Night One in 2018, an entrancing beat tape showcasing writhing and dire instrumentals that tremble with awry precision.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cavorting MC Spenzfrmda4 releases Get Right in 2023, a cracking hip-hop record that delivers thumping rhythms and wispy melodies underneath a prowling lyrical approach.
Spotify

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Versatile producer Genu Jay releases Beatstrummer in 2015, a dense beat tape that showcases limitless talent distilled through experimental vision, resulting in striking sonic canvasses.
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Harsh noise volley GoreWall releases Noise in 2023, an ear-splitting release that transforms two jarring minutes into a thematic journey, encapsulating the essence of both the band and the album title.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dubstep adventurer Aevion releases Rise in 2013, an energetic assortment of electronic melodies that soar across techno landscapes propelled by gusts of EDM.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Folk punk balladeer Americans Abroad releases Subtle Mechanism in 2021, a tinny four-track release that contains raw emotions delivered through acoustic resonance.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Enterprising producer Conscious Beatz releases Coffee: Donut Shop Vol. 1 in 2023, a deluxe edition of his original unmastered beat tape, featuring an extra ten tracks to augment the already abundant tracklist.
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January 29th

Incisive bard Jonathan Facka releases his second album, The Tarmac, in 2021, a nimble yet commanding distillation of existential claustrophobia that navigates through poignant melodies and intricate lyricism.
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Mutant Academy dignitary Henny L.O. releases Ree Louis in 2021, a testament to resilient and assertive character that pays tribute to those navigating, evolving, and persevering through modern day challenges.
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Mutant Academy luminary Big Kahuna OG releases LVVA in 2013, an astounding entry into a storied catalog showcasing the adept MC’s prowess in a subtly altered, more experimental hue.
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Progressive R&B performer Naomiisaac releases Letters From Richmond in 2021, an exceptional album seamlessly merging smooth neo-soul with dynamic hip-hop elements within each sensational song.
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Amplified collective The New Juice Crew releases KnowTheLedge in 2013, a groundbreaking mixtape featuring BlackLiq, BCMusic1st, Azrael Onassis, Lord Slugg, BANDOLERO, & more that pays homage to the golden age of hip-hop.
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Luxuriant hip-hop producer Clef Majorz releases Project 24 in 2022, a bountiful mixtape featuring the who’s who of the lyrical nobility in Virginia’s capital flowing over carefully selected beats and grooves.
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Venturous hip-hop artist Bedwetter aka Lil Ugly Mane releases Volume 1: Flick Your Tongue Against Your Teeth And Describe The Present in 2017, a grim yet striking record that showcases his visceral talent.
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Digital maestro Chris Farmer releases Getting Warm On The Trail Of Heat in 2019, a stark representation of electronic experimentation that swings wildly between truncated expression and expansive exploration.
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Sound deviant A’naja releases Every Woman Adores A Fascist on Lustmurder Records in 2023, a crackling, cackling, and clacking record that forcefully welds together errant sonic eruptions and erratic musical vignettes.
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Emotive folk-rock group Box Of Moxie release their sixth album, Submission Admission, in 2019, a diverse expression of poignant sentimentality that drifts through experimental postmodernism while honoring classic alternative.
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January 28th

Rambunctious rockers Sports Bar release Tyler Perry’s Sports Bar in 2013, a sassy, saucy, and slummy record containing fun, fast, and flippant songs gleaming with sharp riffs and infectious hooks.
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Sensational songstress CJ Temple releases her debut album, Smoke, in 2022, an intricate musical weave of self-identity, love, and internal struggle relayed through soothing tones and unique timbres.
Spotify

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pop punk quartet Telltale release Lie Your Way Out in 2022, a display of emotionally charged melodies and precisely crafted refrains that briskly encapsulate the turbulent realms of anxiety and turmoil.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Progressive underground producer JAK3 releases Moonlight Radiation in 2019, a loose yet resolute record that not only defies conventions but redefines them with unique musicality and daring vision.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Americana troubadour Clint Maul releases Sow in 2014, a tender cultivation of heartfelt narratives and rich melodies that ring with sincerity and resonate with wisdom.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Digital maestro Chris Farmer releases Walshausen in 2019, an assortment of piano compositions, exercises, and larks that date back nearly three decades, revealing a boundless musical repository.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dream pop sightseer Bugdozer releases EP One in 2021, a sprawling four-track release that navigates lo-fi haze, transitions through twinkling tones, and descends into a cacophony of riveting calamity.
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Gliding lyricist Tone Redd releases Wait For It in 2017, a seamless presentation of hip-hop antics that underscores how the fundamental elements of the genre continue to deliver exhilarating moments.
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Enterprising rock project Six Foot Silver releases Above And Below in 2022, an appropriately titled exploration of various alternative sub-genres that traverses sonic landscapes both expansive and introspective.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cagey producer Shiv releases Lone Star: The Mixtape in 2021, an energetic assortment of sampled beats and thoughtfully curated grooves that captivate in laid-back social settings or solitary reflections.
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January 27th

Rapacious garage punks Northeast Regional release Brand Managers Of The Mid-Atlantic in 2023, a riveting blend of classic alternative, dynamic post-hardcore, and timeless punk that leaves listeners in awe.
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Electric duo Illiterate Light release Sunburned in 2023, a navigation of varied sonic realms delving into themes of adversity, transformation, and aspiration, encapsulated within firm yet hopeful soundscapes.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Noise provocateurs Hold Me Down release their self-titled record in 2019, a stark and thrilling sonic expedition into the realms of industrial dissonance and auditory chaos.
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Death metal heavyweights Crucial Rip & DAHMED release their split record, Desire To Disembowel, in 2017, a lashing record from two beatdown tyrants that leave no ear unscathed.
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Sleek hip-hop artisan Bakari Kennedy releases Sittin 4 Quarters in 2023, a succinct yet abundant record that showcases smooth and refreshing lyrical talent vibrating through popping beats.
Spotify

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Psychedelic garage quartet Plastic Nancy releases FUZZTIME in 2019, an exhilarating sonic experience that invites listeners into an irresistible journey through kaleidoscopic musical exploration.
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Stomping metal grunts Gritter release Nobody Cares in 2018, a relentless album that skillfully navigates the raw intersection of thrash metal and stoner rock.
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Cybernetic black metal project Voidlight releases their self-titled record in 2023, a gnawing array of icy riffs and mechanized chaos that manifests a dark, futuristic soundscape.
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Splendid string quintet Cary Street Ramblers release Let Us Have Some Fun in 2023, a rousing record with timeless melodies that even features an appearance by Virginia Senator Tim Kaine.
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Sonic prospector Blundervan releases Vehicle For Error in 2011, an 81-track (holy crap) experimental record that covers ambient, noise, electronic, & alternative with awry ease.
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January 26th

MC extraordinaire Fly Anakin releases At The End Of The Day in 2020, a mesmerizing fusion that highlight his lyrical finesse and individualistic approach through of gritty and distinct beats.
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Sly beatmaker Namebrand releases Grace in 2019, an immersive beat tape offering instrumental enchantment brimming with rhythmic fascination and melodic allure.
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Grime & grind MC Johnny Ciggs releases Toilet Wine on Gritty City Records in 2013, a daring hip-hop album that presents a far more invigorating experience than the prison-made concoction it takes inspiration from.
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Metalcore six-piece Color Me Valiant release Secrets in 2012, an eruption of sonic intensity that does as much to construct lashing soundscapes as it does to pay homage to ecclesiastic scripture.
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Folktronic satirist Elton Wong releases Songs About Political Coups And Home Television Shows in 2020, a shifty mix of sound collages and melodic jaunts that provides an interesting spin on modern protest music.
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Jazzy metal project Careless Monday releases Forecast in 2017, a progressive fusion of two contrasting genres that demonstrates the creative ingenuity bridging both worlds.
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Flanged rock outfit Blush releases A Door’s Ajar in 2022, a fetching capture of feedback drenched instrumentals that join together shoegaze, power pop, grunge, noise rock, and even hip-hop.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Blaring noisecore fiend Industrial Suicide releases their self-titled record in 2023, a concise yet devastating whirlwind of distorted bedlam that encapsulates contemporary angst and distress.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sinuous MC Gooby The Baby releases Couldve Been A Mixtape: Files Forgotten in 2020, a near-anthology of bumping tracks from different projects and experiences, all united by a distinctive lyrical force.
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Experimental digital composer Silvertopbeauty releases Silver 2018-2021 in 2023, a seamless ninety-minute electronic opus that offers a whimsical and piercing sonic journey.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

January 25th

R&B legend D’Angelo releases his second album, Voodoo, in 2000, a pioneering neo-soul masterpiece that set the stage for two decades of progression with its fluid fusion of funk and jazz-infused drifting grooves.
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Punk stalwarts Strike Anywhere releases To Live In Discontent in 2005, a compilation record of rare tracks, some recorded live in concert and others in the studio, which reveal more of their insolent skill.
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Avant-garde melodist Spartan Jet-Plex releases Godless Goddess on Grimalkin Records in 2019, a bold journey through intricate emotions, characterized by the fusion of shifty folktronica and fluctuating soundscapes.
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Rewarding hip-hop collaboration Analog Suspects releases Transmission 001 in 2019, a showcase of lyrical finesse from Noah-O and production savviness from DJ Mentos that captures the thrilling essence of classic rap.
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Mutant Academy professors Fly Anakin & TUAMIE release Emergency Raps, Vol. 4 in 2019, a vibrant exhibition of creative vitality that displays the duo’s remarkable precision & insane prowess.
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Forceful punk trio Railgun release their debut record, Recoil, in 2017, highlighting the band’s unmistakable influences, ranging from metal to funk, and igniting their distinctive & explosive sonic signature.
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Hip-hop virtuoso Ohbliv releases Soulphonic in 2019, a fascinating and gratifying beat tape that draws directly from the psyche of a producer who always hits his melodic mark.
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Reverential garage duo The Bon Air Electric release Cleaners in 2023, a refreshing collision of dub rock and pop punk that highlights their invigorating sound and punchy approach.
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Prolific hard rock outfit Dead Panda releases Dynamite Sounds in 2021, a coiling fuzz rock record containing three dizzying originals and two surprising covers which delight with acid voltage.
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Rock heretics Kill The Druid releases Impact in 2020, an ambitious record that shoots for the lofty promise of post-rock while staying tethered to the grounded electricity of alternative.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

January 24th

Metal icons Lamb Of God releases their seventh album, Resolution, in 2012, a genuine and unpolished barrage of punitive riffs and ruthless intensity that bucks modern production trends.
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Melodic crackler Nerve City release their self-titled record in 2010, a captivating showcase of shaky hooks and impellent rhythms that resonates with the spirit of underground heroes, new and old.
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Sly producer Sleeping Awake releases Future Noir 003: Rainy Day Companion in 2020, a sauntering beat journey that provides contemplative vibes for any open mood, regardless of its misty inclination.
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Hip-hop crew Drano, Larry WHO?, King, and Warren Peace release Rooks Gang: The Smart Effect in 2016, a confident mixtape highlighting the collaborative strength inherent in communal genius.
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Digital maestro Chris Farmer releases 12 in 2019, a collection of unpolished sonic reflections from the end of the 20th century that blur the line between avant innovation and cathodic dalliance.
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Ambient explorer Eric Eckhart releases An Excercise In Self-Indulgence in 2018, a shaded glimpse of a stark distillation of natural observations and existential reflections.
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Reverent boom bap MC Young Parker releases Bul in 2019, a biographical monologue relayed through rhythmic direction and cast in front of a moving backdrop of samples and beats.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Synth-rock rangers Deep Fortress releases III in 2023, an instrumental trek that fills its digital and electric set-up with keen soundscapes, each more evocative and beguiling than the last.
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Psychedelic tonal dauber HogBarber releases Wishing Days in 2023, a motley flash of garage, soul, surf, and indie rock that matches the hazy swirl of influence from the barrage of modern media.
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Electronic vaulter Dinosphere releases their self-titled record in 2021, a wide-eyed exploration of digital creation that captures the whimsy of creative learning and the intrigue of immersive discovery.
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January 23rd

Metallic punk quartet 3:33 releases Jaws Of A Wolf in 2020, the first record from their gnawing discography with Swamp Thing on vocals, backed by Bonesaw, Bo Bayden, and Herb Grinder delivering hardcore intensity.
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Soulful jazz troupe UTV Chamber releases The First Letter in 2011, a dazzling collective helmed by Reggie Chapman that also features DJ Harrison, Marcus Tenney, David Hood, Mary Lawrence Hicks, Paul Wilson, and Chelsea Temple.
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Honky tonk pundits Cassidy Snider & The Wranglers release their debut recording, Live At The Camel, in 2021, a reserved preview of their dynamic sound that showcases the sincere musicality driving their rousing sound.
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Lo-fi bedroom project Spacemonster releases Gills in 2011, a grainy release that fills its eight-track constraint with reaching skill that stretches comfortably across garage, psych, and acid rock.
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Snarling hardcore snipers Firing Squad releases At Their Mercy in 2017, an authoritative showcase of bellicose punk driven by impactful riffs, forceful rhythms, and authoritative vocals.
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Roaming digital auditor Will Mullany releases Headlines 0153 in 2021, seven snippets amounting to thirteen seconds of experimental discharge — a hair-raising experience that concludes in less time than it took to read this.
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Grainy metal project Coyote Altar releases Put It On The Blank Canvas in 2023, a collection of demo recordings unveiling the foundational origins from which their noisy discharge emanates.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jangle pop duo Florida Gardens releases their self-titled record in 2021, a free-flowing album that transforms rock energy into emotional resonance, endlessly intriguing in its richness and clarity.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aching folk-rock duo Sing The Moon release their self-titled debut recording in 2018, a yearning album that embraces the shadows of Americana, weaving a poignant narrative through its melodies.
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Agile tonal entertainer Young Tesla release Space Boy Kaz in 2011, a whimsical record that brims with creative energy, perplexing in its distinct resonance.
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January 22nd

MC extraordinaire Nickelus F releases Vices in 2013, an underground masterstroke that turns gritty observations into rhythmic absorptions, captivating in their gleaming authenticity.
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Playful & plucky group Herro Sugar aka Manatree release their debut self-titled EP in 2012, a dashing three-song release that impishly answers the dry question “what does ‘alt rock’ mean?”
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Heightened hardcore heathens Ghouli release Nothing in 2020, a sensational shelling of raging riffs, venomous vocals, and irradiated intensity that wallops with wanton wreckage.
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Sunny artisan Ty Sorrell release Chai EP in 2019, a refreshing sip of spicy ambiance, brewed from eclectic beats and fluid flows that entice the senses and sooths the soul.
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Tearing punk outlaws Southside Stranglers release Too Much TV on Grave Mistake Records in 2010, a classic showcase of haughty punk roots that delivers raw and unapologetic rock and roll energy.
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Digital maestro Dust~ releases Bravado in 2021, an intriguing beat tape that captures a detour from breakbeat electronic to experimental hip-hop, powered by convulsive rhythms and resourceful soundscapes.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aberrant musical conquerors Intercontinental Champ & The Living Nerves release their split record in 2022, an coarse exercise in atrophying tones pushed through lo-fi jams, electronic dirges, and clattering dissonance.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Free jazz trio Jones/Hopkins/Pollard release Kaleidoscopic Haze in 2021, a rich triumvirate of deep percussive curiosity, errant stringed synergy, and bustling artistic creativity.
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Textural soul artist WaBeya releases Industrial Deconstruction in 2016, a muted dossier of swirling grooves, charged sounds, and subdued harmonies that envelop listeners in an entrancing reverie.
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Richmond ambient icon VonnBoyd releases New Beginnings in 2019 & Vedanā in 2022, two furtive expansions of pensive vantage points that invite personal contemplation amidst sonic exploration.
New Beginnings on Bandcamp | Vedanā on Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

January 21st

Melodic connoisseur Matthew E. White releases his debut record, Big Inner, on Spacebomb Records in 2013, a phenomenal distillation of an expansive musical imagination and voracious sonic palate.
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Irresistible pop punk quartet Steelboy (fka NC17) releases their debut record, Nasty Habits, in 2022, a dynamic melodic drive of spunky spirit that reveals the timeless charm of the impudent genre.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pensive indie-folk trio The Low Branches release their debut record, Sinking, Rising, on Church Hill Records in 2011, a tender and reverential record that emanates raw aural beauty.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Richmond rap guardian Radio B releases Blitz in 2022, a scrappy lyrical display that delivers an impressive barrage of wordy punches in each compelling bass thump.
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Doomgaze outfit BREATHS releases Though Life Has Turned Out Nothing Like I Imagined, It Is Far Better Than I Could Have Dreamt in 2022, a record that matches its lengthy inspiration with gripping magnitude.
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Grindcore acts R.O.T.W.L.C.F.T.S.C.B.M.H. & Genophobic Perversion release Human Butcher Shop in 2022, a turbulent split record that showcases two distinct yet tethered styles of gnawing insurgency.
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Slick MC Trill Nik releases Sincerely Yours, Fly Buddha on Renaissance Recordings in 2022, a booming record that magnifies a fetching flow with bounding beats & trembling vision.
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Experimental coterie Jono Stewart’s Big Mistake releases Solo Works Vol. 1: Excerpts From A Demonstration Of Independence in 2019, a free rock distillation of avant eruptions that astound with curiosity.
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Death metal tyrants Tomb Of Annihilation releases End Of Time in 2022, a relentless and bracing record that offers an invigorating snapshot of thick fortitude, dark melodic hooks, & expansive acumen.
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Digital manipulator Insomniacrobats release Collaborations (Volume 1) in 2021, a sprawling and squirming electronic fusion of noise and distortion that sneers at the boundaries of melodic experimentation.
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January 20th

Resonant acoustic duo Dear Ghosts (Lucy Dacus & Addy Watkins) release For Leaving in 2013, an enthralling record delivering lush emotion through sparse arrangements and delicate performance.
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Post-rock artisans Shy, Low release their debut self-titled record in 2012, a meticulous representation of excellence in expansive soundscapes, intricate instrumentation, and thrilling crests.
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Straight edge punk band Down To Nothing release Live! On The James in 2017, their first live album immortalizing their dynamic & fervent style, resonating with the same intensity as it did at the start of the century.
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Dynamic metal ensemble Pyramid Mass release Monolith in 2023, an expressive and harrowing record that balances angst, anarchy, and alarm through piercing and compelling songs.
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Avant-garde melodist Spartan Jet-Plex release Temporal Memory on Grimalkin Records in 2017, a genre and mind bending exploration of shifty textures and gossamer landscapes.
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Sludge noise duo White Beast release their self-titled record in 2021, a genre-bending record that defiles as much as it defies with rhythmic intention and distorted fanaticism.
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Progressive improvisation consortium RAIC release their fifth album, Symbiosis, Vol. 2, in 2018, a three-part suite offering an emotionally charged and awry avant-garde musical journey through creativity and catharsis.
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Gothic Americana trio Red Clay River release their second album, A Thin Veil, Mixed Madness, in 2017, a riveting voyage through diverse soundscapes spurred by the dark haze of blissful reminiscence.
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Grindcore zealot R.O.T.W.L.C.F.T.S.C.B.M.H. releases their debut record, Destruction Of The American Dream, in 2021, a caustic screed against capitalist avarice delivered through gnawing riffs and whipping rhythms.
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Lithesome producer GORDYMICHAEL release LIVE​!​from3025 in 2014, a bumping and burrowing beat tape that serves as the perfect soundtrack for a laid-back late-night gathering with friends and loved ones.
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January 19th

Piercing post-rock excavators kristeva release Goliad in 2019, a visceral exploration of historical turmoil and somber reflections, composed with tender grace and performed with cunning skill.
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Beatdown brutes Watchdogs release Sanguinary in 2016, a volatile hardcore demonstration that radicalizes with growling assertion and pulverizes with pummeling force.
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Pensive indie-folk trio Low Branches release One Hundred Years Old in 2013, a rich collection of emotionally affecting songs that are deliberate in execution and beautiful in spirit.
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Hip-hop virtuoso Ohbliv releases OHBLENDS in 2018, a collection of therapeutic loops, samples, and beats that provide profound relief for all sonic travelers.
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Post-punk agitators Blood Ponies release A Desolate Place in 2017, a strikingly tense record that uses mournful tones with fiery intensity to decipher bleak and captivating soundscapes.
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Boom bap sniper King Kaiju releases Cold Weather in 2023, a smooth but precise collection of engulfing grooves and pointed flows that mesmerize with rhythmic finesse.
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Chiptune artisan F1NG3RS releases VGM 2: Surge of Shadows in 2016, a gripping send-up of button-mashing classic gaming that shifts its ire from the CPU antagonist to personal umbral demons.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Electronic prospector Gardener releases Here You Are Here in 2016, a speckled ambient record that combines droning resonance with experimental intricacies to cleanse emotion and refine focus.
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Digital maestro Chris Farmer releases Supra Drone in 2019, a stark collection of avant-drone compositions that fit snugly between his breadwinning roots and dusty future.
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Funk rock trailblazers Psychobilly Cadillac release It’s A Household Name in 2013, an alluring fusion of soulful alternative that captivates the senses with aural delight.
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Shoegaze champions Twin Drugs release Hi Pressure in 2019, a finely sharpened record that pierces through the hazy genre’s conventions with a mix of noise tendencies and alt-rock impulses.
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Quirky and innovative power duo Illiterate Light release their debut record, Sweet Beast, in 2019, a daring rock record that eclipses its paired limitation with melodic ease and resonant power.
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Venturous hip-hop artist Lil Ugly Mane releases Criminal Hypnosis: Unreleased Shit in 2012, a true alternative mixtape that leaps from jarring breakdowns to delicate grooves with impressive aplomb.
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Black metal fiends Pyrrhic Salvation releases Manifestum I in 2012, a pummeling tech-death affair that is as heavy as it is diverse in its systematic barrage of melodic roaring.
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Avant-garde musician (Eli)zabeth Owens release their debut record, Altruism, in 2016, a pensive melodic precipitation that moves through murmuring mists, shimmering splashes, and lush downpours of sonic exploration.
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Sludge metal sowers Copperhead release their self-titled album in 2019, a crushing and unrelenting record that utilizes sharp songwriting, intricate structures, and spacious sound to thrill & menace.
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Esoteric musical duo Totem releases In The Dark in 2019, a slow, dreamy offering full of brooding soundscapes with deep harmonies that immerses listeners in a melodic mystery.
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Post-hardcore sextet I Saw A Ghost releases I Saw A Ghost in 2008, a bursting release of frenetic emotion and dynamic musicianship that spills out of their genre class into experimental sonic wonder.
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Darkwave sprawlers Petrified Entity releases B-Sides & Rarities in 2023, a looming & stalking pilgrimage spurred by a growing back catalog that highlights the multifaceted nature of digital post-punk expression.
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Versatile hip-hop artist DooF releases Tha Bridge Strangler on Gritty City Records in 2019, a dusky and grimy exploration of personal observations and reflections narratives relayed over gritty beats.
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January 17th

Six string marksman Mark Morton releases Ether in 2020, a mellower representation of his virtuosic skill that finds inspiration within acoustic soundscapes, each illuminated by a dazzling array of collaborators.
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Sunny artisan Ty Sorrell releases For Now in 2018, a radiant gust of neo-soul, alt-rap, and progressive soul that enthralls with vibrant melodies and flowing lyricism, resonating with genre-defying charm.
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Prolific producer Sleeping Awake releases Black Hoodie Supremacy in 2014, a digital odyssey inspired by animated cel media that utilize the limitless potential of midi sounds to captivate and inspire.
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Experimental psych-rock act Poison Joy releases Discovery in 2020, a thirty-five minute suite housed within a single track that drones with curious flair alongside a subterfuge of krautrock tones.
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Calculated rap correspondent Lord Slugg re-releases The Sluggtape Vol 2 in 2019, an auspicious mixtape overflowing with compelling flows and lyrical wonder, featuring BlackLiq, Sleaze, Rah Scrilla, and more!
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Blaring hard rock band Captives release The Drop in 2012, an ear-popping seven-track record that combines screamo antagonism with stoner rock vibes to deliver an imposing variation of noise rock.
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Salient hip-hop producer Profound79 releases Digital Getaway in 2016, a downtempo beat tape that focuses on rich tones and refined timbres to cultivate its groove ambiance.
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Dexterous emo group LVTCS release Stereoprints Of Home in 2020, a poignant album brimming with incisive lyrics, evocative instrumentals, and cathartic breakdowns.
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Musing hip-hop producer Hernon releases Good Times in 2020, a delightful collection of beats, samples, and loops that ensnare ears with a sensational approach.
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Expressive MC Kei Harris releases Love Myself More Than in 2021, a refreshing hip-hop record featuring a compelling mix of self-love affirmations, dynamic club anthems, and impactful trap beats.
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January 16th

Crossover thrash icons Iron Reagan releases their demo tape in 2012, an incendiary introduction into their crunchy intensity that makes a five minute run-time feel like an hour long assault.
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Darkwave mavens DECADES / FAILURES release G00DBY3 in 2015, a stark yet captivating descent into the ravishing depths of atmospheric soundscapes and haunting melodies.
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Richmond hip-hop legends BlackLiq x ohbliv release What Will It Take in 2023, a riveting six-song demonstration of candid storytelling seamlessly interwoven with a flawless musical backdrop.
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Global groove champions Afro-Zen Allstars release The Buzz And The Bells in 2022, a dynamic record that shimmers with melodic finesse while gliding across a rhythmic landscape with infectious passion.
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Dashing hip-hop artist The Uth releases Fountain Of Uth in 2019, a daring rhythmic excursion across throbbing beats, peculiar syncopation, and compulsive grooves, each decorated with vivid lyricism.
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Spacious emo duo Black Liver releases My Sex Life Matters Not To Me in 2019, a poignant EP that navigates through somber moments, nostalgic influences, and acoustic reflections.
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Whimsical activists Ruckus Aquinas releases AR-EP in 2020, a gallant record that undercuts a direct call-to-action with impish compositions that help underscore the absurdity of pearl-clutching munition zealots.
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Radical alt-rap dispenser dub t releases Panopticon in 2023, a lyrically profound album that unravels the complexity of contemporary activism through bold samples, grooves, and soundscapes, laying bare the fundamental struggle.
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One man metal menace Coyote Altar releases Crepuscular in 2023, a deluge of doom theatrics and sonic tumult, distilled through a singular vision of gritty and grainy calamity.
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Hazy hip-hop producer mudgee releases greenloop in 2023, a dusty beat tape that dives deep into the discography of Al Green to highlight the timeless appeal of his iconic sound.
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January 15th

Nuanced percussionist and composer ScottClark releases This Darkness in 2021 on Out Of Your Head Records, an exploration of intentional spaciousness and stirring landscapes that draws inspiration from the poetry of Rainer Maria Rilke.
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Acid-tinged post-punk quartet Fat Spirit release Super King in 2013, a sensational garage record that fluctuates between trippy psych descents and fuzzy punk breakdowns, expertly melding both into a sharp sound.
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Tight hardcore quartet 3:33 releases Moon Maniac in 2022, a bustling array of barking tracks that deliver more menace in ten boisterous minutes than simple earbuds can comprehend.
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Electro debauchee Stephanie releases Tangerine Nightmare in 2019, a thrilling assemblage of ’80s horror soundscapes undercut by modern day harsh noise corrosion that matches classic dread with modern sorrow.
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Lo-fi grunge experimenter Cherry Pit releases Wear The Gown in 2023, a grainy representation of modern punk, distilled through a multitude of cavernous sub-genres that only sharpens the sound and intensifies the snarl.
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Snarky punk rockers Gottem releases Infinity Blunts in 2016, a bold record that leans into hardcore contempt while still retaining the melodic core and spry rhythm of breakneck garage rock.
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Crafty multi-instrumentalist Salton Sea releases Music For A Short Suspense Indie Film in 2023, a previously unreleased soundtrack to a short film that extends past its complimentary roots into a truly evocative sound.
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Dusty loop crafter Aidan Giuffre releases Con Anima in 2019, a scratchy and crackling beat tape that showcases the fundamental joy of sample splicing, groove looping, and rhythmic experimentation.
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Digital merchant Ben Wilson releases Computer Music in 2022, a wondrous four-part suite that glides and pulsates through deep house with expert finesse and surprising resonance.
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Shadowy electronic artist IVRY_S ⇆ lith-512 releases 〖LABELMAKER〗 in 2023, a mysterious recording full of dark ambient exploration that yields immersive soundscapes which haunt with textural guile.
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January 14th

Indie glam band Black Girls release their second album, Hell Dragon, in 2012, a snappy funk-pop jumble that electrifies in its dynamic tumble across nine magnetic tracks.
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Ace hip-hop artists Koncept Jack$on & Heavy Slim releases Rush Hour 420 – Li’s Locker in 2020, a grimy and soulful beat tape connecting the classic sonic nobility with the modern tonal underground.
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Digital experimenter Brown Piss releases Alien Pharaohs on Chaotic Noise Productions in 2015, a darting and decaying harsh noise record that utilizes electronic prowess to destroy and deprave.
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Noisy hip-hop duo Trauma Lavern releases Album Announcement Fail in 2020, a caustic approach to gritty underground music that utilizes rap’s lyrical intention to trigger a hardcore onslaught.
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Prolific producer Sleeping Awake releases CDXX in 2022, a conceptual record that serves as an introduction into a bustling and frenetic cyberpunk club where free will turns into a dance of controlled chaos.
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Riotus hardcore punks Ugly Muscle release their self-titled record in 2019, a tense and suspenseful brawl stretched out over four truculent tracks that swing with menace and connect with clarity.
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Expressive beat maker Quan Sensei releases Sk8 (Sensei)tion in 2022, a relaxed instrumental slalom that slides through a sonic roller rink with effortless finesse.
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Boom bap zealot Roy Alva releases Old Watches on Soft Grit Recordings in 2021, a collection of previously released singles that showcase an ample yet unified sound and style.
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Scrappy hip-hop artist Ty Fundamentals releases OuttaBoXx in 2023, a lyrical assertion that blows through murmuring soundscapes and blaring rhythms.
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Reverb washed folk singer Midnight Rob releases Resignation Tomes in 2022, a four-track snapshot of hazy Americana relayed through the filter of melodic catharsis.
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January 13th

Noise-punk misfts Black Button release Rejoice in 2023, a cacophony of contemplation delivered through rhythmic dirges and crackling torrents that pummels with oblique intensity.
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Bummer pop quartet Antiphons release Groan in 2017, a post-modern impression of indie rock that delves into its post-punk foundation while still blending in unique elements and twists.
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Global groove champions Afro-Zen Allstars release Greatest Hits in 2017, a vibrant showcase of their diverse musical influences, which delivers a universal message of love & hope through evocative sounds & irresistible rhythms.
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Electronic artiste Chino Amobi release Darling Street in 2021, a jarring and imposing merger of trap, techno, noise, and no wave that refines itself into a glossy arsenal of experimental sounds.
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Sage hip-hop artist BlackLiq release 7Days in 2019, a booming record that pulsates with cracks and punches, revealing the combative pursuit of artistic fulfillment.
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Fibrous songwriter Castalia releases their self-titled record in 2020, a lo-fi textual gem that shines with lyrical compulsion and musical plangency, far extending its loose recordings and folksy foundation.
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Hip-hop virtuoso Ohbliv releases Blk Love Frequency (b) in 2014, a dusky loop tribute to the radical power of melanin passion.
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Aphotic producer SKINQUARTER releases Season in 2019, a collection of abstract and noise compositions that yield a ferociously ingenious fusion of electronica, jazz, and metal.
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Lavish electronic crafter Daysailer release Widow’s Walk on Companionway Tapes in 2022, a conceptual record that tells the tonal story of inter-dimensional conversations between the living and departed.
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Brusque MC Granada releases The Richmond Tape, a densely packed hip-hop record that examines the fractured essence of Virginia’s capital with jawing barbs and rhythmic notches.
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January 12th

Folk-punk troubadour Madison Turner releases A Comprehensive Guide To Burning Out in 2018, a poignant and rousing exploration of personal strife, societal pressures, and individual reclamation.
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Gifted Mutant Academy MCs Big Kahuna OG & Fly Anakin release Big Fly 3 in 2019, another exceptional collaboration that showcases the prowess of two skillful lyricists who consistently elevate each other’s abilities.
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Richmond sonic visionary Tennishu release Non-Violent in 2015, a stirring record that’s as emotionally complex as it is musically dense, revealing an artist mind capable of resonant excellence.
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Snarling hardcore quartet Outsider releases their demo tape in 2018, a gritty recording that offers a clear snapshot of an intense sound that flares with raw energy and rebellious spirit.
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Rootsy blues troupe The Bush League releases James RiVAh in 2018, a soulful exploration of the downtrodden genre that strings together authentic tones into a unique vision.
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Ambient prospector Joshua Quarles releases Against The Fall Of Night in 2019, a piercing rumination inspired by the melodic nuance of a peaceful dusk and dire night.
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Prolific producer Sleeping Awake releases Panoramic Pixel View in 2017, a cavernous chiptune cavalcade that stretches its 8-bit structure into scopic wonder.
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Surfy garage band Shrunk releases their self-titled album in 2015, a buzzing record that rides a billowing melodic wave to its grainy crest with infectious flair.
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Sound artificer Stephen Vitiello releases Stephen Vitiello With Brendan Canty in 2023, a sonic mosaic of string and digital tones that’s polished off by vibrant percussive acuity.
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Recondite alternative musician Mikael releases Stuck Like Everyone Else I Know in 2023, a snapshot of spirited melodies and fuzzy hooks from an awry aspirant using home recordings as escape and catharsis.
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January 11th

Hardcore supergroup Terminal Bliss releases Brute Err/ata on Relapse Records in 2021, a quintessential punk record utilizing the core appeal of chaotic music that was nominated for the inaugural Newlin Music Prize!
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Rhapsodic MC Illa Styles releases Mind Your Reality in 2021, a dynamic hip-hop record that delves into the profound interplay between consciousness and the manifested universe, delivered with stunning finesse.
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Progressive improvisation consortium RAIC releases their sixth album, Multiplicity, in 2019, an explosive bombardment of free jazz ingenuity, black metal dread, and avant-garde wayfaring.
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Desolate d-beat punk rockers Nosebleed release their self-titled record on Grave Mistake Records in 2017, a raw showcase of rapid, enraged, and fundamental hardcore barrages.
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Hip-hop virtuoso Ohbliv releases Altars in 2015, a zealous collection of spiritual-tinged beats that reveal the holy charm of soul music.
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Swampy rock group Mister Earthbound releases Hypnotic Rhythm in 2020, a two-song release mired in heavy-psych soundscapes that features one original composition and a familiar rendition.
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Variegated producer Ethanol releases Meet People And Learn in 2019, a vibrant excursion traversing R&B, pop, jazz, and psych styles that captivates with its varied sonic palette.
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Alt-pop duo Twin Films release Pastels in 2021, an embracement of indie music’s wide umbrella that travels from intimate bedroom songwriting to vivid electronic convocations.
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Power electronic outfit Life Appreciation Renewal release their self-titled record in 2018, an eroding reel of harsh noise dissonance that envelops the listener in a cacophony of sonic abrasion.
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Punchy emo quartet Fanfare release I Could Live Here, I Could Die Here in 2019, a vibrant and buzzing auditory trek that pulsates with heartfelt energy and introspective depth.
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January 10th

Fuzzy twee band Big Baby releases Fizzy Cola in 2020, a delightful six-song blend of effervescent melodies and whimsical charm delivered with jangly zeal and infectious energy.
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Noisy postpunk trio VV releases III in 2020, a defiant crest of cold wave, dark wave, and no wave intensity that reverberates with unyielding, gritty conviction.
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Frenetic electronic framer Dust~ releases Mantra in 2022, a dynamic cross-section of EDM and electroclash that highlights the subtle yet sturdy connections between bustling digital sub-genres.
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Diffusive MC Smyth Knight releases Kidz At Play: Decade’s End in 2020, a swanky hop record with glistening instrumentals decorated even further by robust flows from an exceptional MC and his burgeoning collective.
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Elusive electronic artist Kids Techno releases The Harmony Of Spheres on Cherub Records in 2020, an engrossing composition of digital tones that rejects contemporary diversions in the quest for pulsating frequencies.
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Reverential garage duo The Bon Air Electric releases Clash Of The Pink Stooges in 2023, a gritty snapshot of punk, blending classic influence and modern aspiration, that showcases their bracing sound.
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Dusty loop crafter Aidan Giuffre releases The Early Tape in 2018, a crackling rhythmic flow that calls back to memories of fruitful late night hand radio scrolling.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Experimental producer Black Pop / Dad Magic releases End Of Days Radio, a modern day pastiche of avant-garde creation that strings together loops and samples into a quirky, yet intriguing sound.
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Rock expressionist Kozi releases 12 Angry Pronouns, an instrumental overview of alternative’s ever-growing umbrella, delivered with sharp acumen and adroit flair.
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Punchy rock outfit Net Negative releases Gold Teeth/Fundamentally Different, a vibrant two-song release that pushes past its quick runtime with exuberant melodic marvel.
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January 9th

Richmond institution NO BS! Brass releases their second album, Alive In Richmond, in 2009, a thrilling display of musical precision and funky vibes that provides a clarion lineup of bronze brilliance.
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Sage hip-hop artist BlackLiq re-releases Black in 2019, a lyrical intent record that stomps and strides through striking samples with artistic finesse and musical expertise.
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Witchy doom quartet Petrichor releases II in 2019, a powerful record that pairs a singular vocal bellow with a looming hard rock sound to deliver a dramatic and rhapsodic listening experience.
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Hard rock outfit Crushing Yellow Sun releases In Stereo in 2018, the first record in their prolific catalog of fuzzy acid sonics that incorporates vocals as an integral element.
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Valiant pop punk quartet In Courage releases their self-titled record in 2013, a forceful record that delivers cathartic release through punchy drives and sincere moments during tempered reflections.
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Progressive underground producer JAK3 releases I Feel Sick in 2017, a collection of hazy and nebulous beats bolstered by the reverie of vocal snippets bounding around with raving deliberation.
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Neofolk musician Rose With Teeth releases Set My Body On Fire in 2002, a daring musical endeavor that channels the essence of pain into melodic aspirations, traversing various styles and languages.
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Electronic producer INFJ releases Şᵖē¢ᵗค¢ˡē in 2019, a bright volley between EDM and chiptune that enlivens and invigorates with pulsating beats, nostalgic tones, and digital wonder.
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Underground hip-hop collective Astral Trap releases 1147 Pt. 2 in 2019, a robust twenty-one-track album showcasing both compelling direct rap deliveries and ethereal cloud bypasses.
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Harsh noise provocateur Flagellations releases Servitude in 2022, a dual suite played in reverse that crackles and boils with fermenting invention, offering a visceral auditory experience.
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January 8th

Metal icons GWAR release their second album, Scumdogs Of The Universe, in 1990, an intergalactic onslaught of thrashing guitars, monstrous vocals, and theatrical mayhem that solidifies their shock pioneer status.
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Prescient hardcore quartet Deviant releases Loading The Gun in 2019, an incendiary musical and lyrical onslaught that channels apt rage and fury into a blistering auditory experience.
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Sage hip-hop artist BlackLiq re-releases his nineteenth album, Fall For The Fly, in 2019, an unapologetic and raw musical testament showcasing his growth, maturity, and continued commitment to authentic storytelling.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rootsy folk musician Jonathan Vassar releases 8 Songs in 2004, a collection of gleaming alt-country recordings that spark an intimate soundspace with nimble craftmanship and heartfelt expression.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Collaborative garage duo Big Loud Awful Sound releases Drink, Smoke, And Swear Like A Sailor in 2022, an alternative spin on swing and reggae that soars on its errant charm and irreverent devotion.
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Sound designer Baccharis releases The Solstice Sessions 2020 in 2021, an improvisational suite broken into five parts that presents a synthesis of melody, rhythm, and atmospheric nuances.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Acoustic dabbler I Wrote The Songs releases Red Stem in 2023, an instrumental snapshot of the area between melodic sketches and musical composition that lays bare the boundless potential of creative tinkering.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Underground hip-hop collective Astral Trap releases Reversism in 2021, a psychedelic exploration of their unique and unconventional style that delivers awry flows and prismatic beats.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Underground hip-hop collective Astral Trap releases New Moon in 2021, a dusty, dusky, and direct display of their rough and cagey approach to progressive rap.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rollicking stringband The Hot Seats releases Live On WRIR in 2018, a strolling display of their refreshing and animated sound that graciously resonates with each plucky note.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

January 7th

Sage hip-hop artist BlackLiq re-releases his debut album, Free Black, in 2019, marking the inception of the musical odyssey for one of Richmond’s most celebrated MCs
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Electronic artiste Chino Amobi / Diamond Black Hearted Boy releases How The West Was Won, Wanted: Dead or Alive in 2014, an initial standout in the burgeoning seapunk sub-genre that serves as a channel-flicking exercise through 20th century Americana.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grimy electro-noise rock outfit Teenage Cenobite release their debut album, Rules To Break, on Anti-Everything in 2019, a relentless experimental assault or provocative dark pop invitation depending on your inclination.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fiery duo The Heavy Air releases In / After in 2022, a compelling rock synthesis intertwining elements of emo, pop punk, and post-hardcore, displaying profound promise and vigor.
Spotify

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Devout folk collective SwampTrees releases Ghost Of Greenwood Manor in 2014, a reverent and mystical embrace of heartland aestetichs that echoes with rustic resilence, also featuring members of Holy River and Doll Baby.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Funk jam quartet Cleophus James releases Live At Beale’s in 2021, a vivid snapshot showcasing their spirited and groove-laden musical prowess sliding through several genres effortlessly.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bedroom shoegaze project Starwishr releases DreamydreamerdreamingAdream in 2020, a thrilling reverberation of hazy melodies & asperous guitars that will astonish & captivate.
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Drifting dream pop artist CLACKS releases BLURRED/DEFERRED in 2022, a hypnagogic electro tumble into a world of digital reverie & empyreal enchantment.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bullish power trio Josie McQueen release Shed Some Light in 2014, a brisk alternative release brimming with energetic dynamics & compelling delivery.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Underground cloud rapper THRIFT ICARUS releases Fear + Trembling in 2021, a drifting hip-hop excursion delving into fear, anxiety, & insecurity, adorned with atmospheric nuances.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

January 6th

Mathcore and emoviolence bands DOTGIFFROMGOD & Vein release their split record, A Release Of Excess Flesh, in 2017, a relentless and intense exhibition of pulverizing musicality from two imposing powerhouses.
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Hip-hop gurus Fan Ran & DøøFus release Snake Inna Rattrap in 2023 on Gritty City Records, a grainy snapshot of dusty reveries and coarse realities that’s illuminated with sharp talent and rich authenticity.
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Misanthropic sludge rock duo THUNDERCHIEF releases Dekk Meg… in 2023, a roaring cacophony of dissonant aggression and discordant brilliance delivered with refined asperity.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dazzling producer collective Satellite Syndicate releases The Secret Sample Swap in 2015, a musical interpretation of Secret Santa where each producer traded samples to provide inspiration and challenge.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Off-kilter songwriter Wes Parker releases Shapehunter in 2015, an assortment of salient sketches and idiosyncratic ideas that showcasing his distinctive musical approach and rousing finesse.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Elusive electronic artist Kids Techno releases THREEEPS in 2010 on Cherub Records, a compilation of three EPs originally released on MySpace that boom, rattle, and shake with curious digital prowess.
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Crushing hardcore quartet Destruct release their promo tape in 2019, a pseudo-live record with howling intensity & explosive clout that serves as a precursor to the monumental 2020 record Echoes Of Life.
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Idiosyncratic melodist B. McCormick releases To Ease My Worried Mind in 2012, a rootsy insight into a canny songwriting style that yields winsome prose and rich melodies.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hardcore juggernauts Division Of Mind release their demo in 2017, a stark and potent three-track presentation that overwhelms with visceral intensity and unbridled force.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Richmond ambient icon VonnBoyd releases Vista in 2019, an engulfing electronic escapade split into two paired pieces that thrill with ambitious vision and sooth with judicious skill.
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January 5th

Prog-psych dynamos Ten Pound Snail releases their debut album, Tabula Rasa, in 2023, an enigmatic blend of thrilling rock theatrics and shadowy pop melodies that enthrall and captivate.
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Scheme Team elite Big Kahuna OG & Monday Night release Thug Tear in 2020 and Shark Report in 2021, two equally bold records that showcase lyrical flair from an endlessly gripping hip-hop collective.
Thug Tear on Bandcamp | Shark Report on Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Richmond music pillar DJ Harrison releases LightPower in 2018, an instrumental delight of funk, jazz, & neo-soul that illustrates the boundless joy of inspired creativity.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Magnetic indie rock band Coach Savage releases Allergic To Touch in 2018, a piercing and impactful record that harmonizes its inspirations into a cohesive melodic journey.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sage hip-hop artist BlackLiq releases I Did It For The Love in 2019, a thirty-three (!!!) track compilation of unreleased joints revealing the shocking depth of the industrious MC’s prolific talent.
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Deft & glib musician Bee Boy$oul releases Ataraxy in 2020, a sleek hip-hop exhibition of lyrical acumen, rhythmic finesse, and melodic sophistication that spellbinds earbuds.
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Pensive hip-hop versifier Unoit releases What’s Mine Is Mine in 2023, a thought-provoking musical odyssey that’s bolstered by the all-star guest list of talented MCs.
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Local favorites Catie Lausten & Benét release Love Too Hard in 2021, a radiant two-track release showcasing the dexterity of singular talents who unify their individual strengths into a harmonious expression.
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Spry hip-hop artist GAWD* releases Cubic Zirconium N Petroleum in 2022, a booming and bouncy record that expands familiar conventions to display a frizzy dynamic vision.
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Stoner punk trio Dead Panda releases Demos, Out Takes, And Alt Versions, ’19-’22 in 2022, a collection of previously unreleased material that showcases their rugged beginning and promising future.
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January 4th

Prolific producer Sleeping Awake releases In The Shadows Volume 6 in 2019, an electronic wonderland modeled into an apocryphal soundtrack inspired by the promise and intrigue of video game series Persona and Shin Megami Tensei.
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Adroit melodic scientist Tavishi releases Voices In My Head in 2019, a nine-track ambient exploration that weaves through rich and abstract soundscapes with electronic curiosity and personal reflection.
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Experimental electronic crafter Virlyn releases Aguirre in 2014 on Subterranean Tide, a four-track suite nominally inspired by Werner Herzog’s 1972 cinematic epic that zeroes in on the eeriness of theistic control.
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No Wave merchants Susan Sandra & Muzak City release Clean in 2018, a collaborative album split into two lengthy sections that explores the freedom of compositional expression without regard to style or constraints.
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Crafty hip-hop counsel Marquis releases Dear Richmond in 2011, a metropolitan dedication interspersed with personal observations and insightful reflections relayed over bombastic beats and samples.
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Celtic string quartet The Donnybrooks release Peace Hill Sessions in 2011, a collection of Irish folk standards flavored with rural American flair that showcases their resonant musical flair.
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Staunch folk-rock outfit Itchy Hearts release Live @ I Forgot in 2021, a stirring recording of a seven-song set containing pulsating music that buzzes past roots music and into dynamic punk and anti-folk.
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Ardent hip-hop couturier A$4 releases For Forever <3 in 2022, a lyrically fluttering record set to amorous beats that feels direct and frank in its tender plea.
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Lively jazz-folk fusers Mills Family Band release Live At The Rams Head Tavern in 2008, a brisk and vibrant showcase of their eclectic musical fusion captured in a frank recording.
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Lo-fi rock endeavor The Sucking Hand release It in 2015, a compelling two-song release where the incorporation of recording fuzz and gritty distortion complements the allure created by six-string melodies and gritty vocals.
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January 3rd

Beatmaking collective Just Plain Sounds release For Your Listening Pleasure… I in 2011, a collection of sleek samples and crafty loops from Ohbliv, DJ Harrison, Ant The Symbol, Gordy Michael, Sleaze, Rowan, and Dizz.
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Noise duo Navi releases Illuminavi EP in 2014, an abrasively ingenious record that relies on manual power electronics and gritty gumption to intensify their sonic presence.
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Enterprising MC OG Illa releases Zone in 2017, a frenetic hip-hop purview into a reckless life of consequences, recorded for emotional release and spiritual closure.
Bandcamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lo-fi garage project Shed releases The Fisherman’s Wife in 2023, a striking pastiche of sharp talent and loose performance that captures an inspiring musical essence.
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Thrashing death metal band Vomit Stain releases Piles Of Human Debris in 2019, a shredding cloaca of blackened musical frenzy that catapults listeners into a visceral sonic whirlwind.
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Sage hip-hop artist BlackLiq releases I Do It For The Love in 2019, a revival of his late 2000s mixtape that pays homage to his musical journey and showcases his artistic growth.
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Spurtive producer SENOJNAYR releases TYFS (Thank You For Supporting) in 2016, a seven-track instrumental record that merges bouncy EDM and modern hip-hop with inventive flair.
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Hard rock outfit Crushing Yellow Sun releases Best Of…So Far Vol. 2 in 2018, a nineteen-track compilation spotlighting the finest moments of the prolific acid guitarist’s thrilling side project.
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Lithesome producer Gordy Michael releases Bread in 2016, a symphony of nutrient-rich musical nourishment warmly kneaded into a chewy and flavorful auditory delight.
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Post-hardcore duo WTLB releases Transition in 2014, a thrilling three-song record drenched in emo intensity, pop punk snappiness, and experimental fervor.
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January 2nd

Resonant wordsmith Michael Millions releases Hard To Be King in 2018, a hip-hop tour de force that delves into the authentic Richmond experience through riveting lyricism & compelling beats.
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Canny hardcore quartet Invertebrates release their demo tape in 2022, a blistering four-track record delivered with fierce intent, seamlessly incorporating street & skate punk subgenres.
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Prodigious MC Fly Anakin releases Anakin & Friends: Episode 1 in 2021, a barreling yet bountiful tape that showcases the cumulative force of Mutant Academy & the singular talent of a hip-hop Jedi.
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Cold wave outfit DECADES / FAILURES release 002 in 2014, an austere post-punk wonderland of melodic gloom and rhythmic sophistication that is as imposing as it is rousing.
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Synth duo Liam & Maya release Balcony in 2022, a shuffling four-track glissade showcasing electronic ingenuity that fills earbuds with enthralling instrumentals.
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Ambient inquirer Virginia Aveline releases You Won’t Miss the Sun Again in 2020, a melancholic three-track record that navigates through foggy folk with hesitant invitation.
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Progressive Americana artist Philip James Murphy Jr releases Bummer Is Icumen In in 2020, an expansive record enriched with familiar roots tones and polished by experimental reveries.
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Dream folk artist Guinevere Laurent releases You Belong On The Moon in 2023, an experimental bedroom project seamlessly traversing from glitch pop to garage rock with whimsical ease.
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Effervescent digital composer Daysailer releases Came Here For The Noise in 2023 on Companionway Tapes, a musically buoyant record that showcases their fluttering vision.
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Electronic firebrand Collet releases Inductance Hymnal in 2020, a bubbling and crackling record that extends the legacy of industrial and noise music, crafting a memorable and challenging sonic experience.
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January 1st

MC extraordinaire Nickelus F releases Cut The Check in 2005, a jaw-dropping mixtape displaying lyrical ferocity and finesse over nineteen bold tracks, one featuring future icon Drake.
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Indie folk legends Carbon Leaf release their debut album, Meander, in 1995, a stylistically adventurous album that not only establishes the foundation for their distinctive sound but also incorporates influences from nascent alternative rock.
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Oblique hardcore band Black Button release their second album, I Want To Be In Control, on 11 PM Records in 2021, a briery seven-track record that explores defiant punk as well as combative no wave.
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Americana sensation Moosetrap release their debut album, Wrote In Gold, in 2020, a remarkable blend of classic country influences and modern experimentation spread across twelve stirring songs.
Spotify

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sage hip-hop artist BlackLiq releases A Lord Slugg Production (Throwback) in 2019, an ambitious hip-hop undertaking recorded in just one session from an MC mentally and emotionally locked into a single vision.
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Explosive emo-hardcore outfit Four Hundred Years releases The New Imperialism in 2000 on Lovitt Records, a shocking blend of acute self-perception and combustible rawness that draws inspiration from social criticism and political unrest.
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Hip-hop virtuoso Bradford Thomas releases 5104: Secret Basement in 2016, a refreshing thirteen-track beat tape that adds further polish and bounce to his teeming discography.
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D-beat hardcore menaces Kontaminate unleash Blood Hunger in 2021 on 11 PM Records, a vicious offering characterized by intense rhythms and direct aggression that ferments over five blistering tracks.
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Monday Night & 3WaySlim release Good Company in 2023, a collaborative EP that embodies the essence of abstract hip-hop, showcasing impressive chemistry and striking a perfect balance between artful production and accessibility.
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Sly & sprightly songstress Deore unveils her debut EP, Sink Or Swim, in 2020, a nimble folk-pop offering that brilliantly showcases her musical versatility across four heartfelt tracks.
Spotify