5 Pittsburgh Bands with Recent Albums Worth Listening To
Pittsburgh has a vibrant music scene with local artists covering a wide range of genres from Celtic tunes to hip-hop and psychedelic rock. Although the city may not be as well-known for its music scene as others, local musicians are steadily gaining recognition with their new releases on streaming platforms, vinyl, and CDs.
One band making waves in the local scene is M.E.L.T., consisting of James May, Joey Troupe, and J.J. Young, with Kat Polaski featuring on their latest album, “Innervate/Obliterate.” This album, released on Oct. 3, delves into the theme of duality in the world around us and how individuals react to it. Divided into two sides, “Innervate” focuses on reflection and internalization, while “Obliterate” explores destruction and chaos. Tracks like “Tranquilized” and “Mass Grave” showcase the band’s unique sound, with elements of Sabbath inspiration and danceable beats.
Bealtaine, another local band, offers a mix of Celtic traditional music, labor songs, and original tunes in their album “Factories & Mills, Shipyards & Mines.” Drawing inspiration from Celtic roots, the band’s compositions are both nostalgic and compelling. Tracks like “Grafton Street” and “The Ducks of Dublin Town” weave captivating narratives inspired by Irish folklore and history.
Bill Toms and Hard Rain present their latest album, “It’s All We’re Fighting For,” featuring a lineup of talented musicians like Tom Breiding, Steve Binsberger, and the Soulville Horns. With insightful lyrics and soulful melodies, the band addresses themes of uncertainty and hope in a changing world. Tracks such as the title song and “Freedom Rider” blend social commentary with bluesy rhythms, offering a fresh perspective on contemporary issues.
Grxwn Fxlks, a hip-hop duo consisting of Masai Turner and Akil Esoon, explore the essence of truth and introspection in their album “Volume 2: Braille.” With soulful beats and thought-provoking lyrics, the duo’s music resonates with grown thinkers seeking depth and authenticity in today’s world. Tracks like “Mirror rorriM” and “Promise” showcase the duo’s unique blend of soulful soundscapes and poetic storytelling.
The Pump Fakes, with their album “Alone In the Middle,” deliver a collection of poignant songs exploring loss, regret, and acceptance. Led by Patrick Maloney, the band’s Americana-infused rock sound draws inspiration from artists like The Drive-By Truckers and American Aquarium. Tracks like “You Beat Me To It” and “Out of State Plates” showcase the band’s versatility and emotional depth, resonating with fans of heartfelt storytelling and rock ‘n’ roll energy.
In conclusion, Pittsburgh’s music scene continues to thrive, with local artists showcasing diverse talent and creative expression across various genres. From Celtic ballads to introspective hip-hop, the city’s musicians are making waves with their fresh perspectives and innovative sounds. Be sure to check out these five local bands with new albums that are sure to captivate your ears and leave a lasting impression.