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SamWoy @ The New Colossus Festival 2026

Montreal-based SamWoy blends narrative-driven songwriting with groove-heavy indie rock, channeling post-punk energy and glam influences. In the interview, he reflects on the spontaneity of live performance, pre-show nerves, and a creative process where songs evolve both in the studio and on stage.

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Get to know Swirls

Swirls return with Surge, a self-recorded second album that blends garage punk with slacker and indie rock influences. Re-recorded after a short tour, the album captures a sharper, more energized version of the band’s sound. Across its tracks, Surge balances sarcasm and sincerity while exploring aging, frustration, and connection.

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Video Premiere: GLICH3 “Class”

Today we premiere video for “Class”, a radical love song set against class struggles, by Houston indietronica act GLICH3. Directed by Beverley Buchanan, the clip pairs a DIY aesthetic with expressive dance, blending personal vision with broader themes of catharsis and creative freedom.

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activemirror @ The New Colossus Festival 2026

Aruba’s activemirror deliver a sharp, charismatic take on post-punk, blending the brooding intensity of Joy Division with the modern edge of Interpol. Following their self-released debut Though The Night Is Not Over, the band made a standout impression at The New Colossus Festival, even prompting a repeat watch.

In our conversation, the band reflects on music as a vital outlet for expression, a fluid and inspiration-driven songwriting process, and a live approach that prioritizes energy, experimentation, and reinvention over replication.

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navel grazr shines bright on “PUFF PIECE”

New York’s navel grazr was started by Anjali Nair as a “no-pressure creative refuge.” With Dominic Dellaquila, navel grazr creates rich sonic textures, often dancing in the shadows of pop. Read our Q&A with Nair in which we talk NYC’s indie scene, perfectionism, collaboration and their latest song “PUFF PIECE.”

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Exclusive Premiere: Synth pop act New Romantics shares “Low Stakes”

Today we are excited to premiere New Romantics’ new song “Low Stakes”! The track is off their newly announced album NO LIFE, dropping on 12/13 via Gezellig Records.

“Low Stakes” is New Romantics finding harmony between darkness and truth. Its heavy synths and metallic sounds echo creating a dark contrast with Brandon Biondo’s voice. Read more about the track and listen to it now exclusively on soundvsystem before its official release tomorrow!

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Velvet Sun returns after 20+ years

After a 20-year hiatus, Florida-based Velvet Sun returns with their new EP Empire, Inspired by early influences like the Pixies and Blue Öyster Cult, the EP channels nostalgic melodies with a fresh, politically charged perspective. In an interview, Scott Weinkle opens up about his DIY approach to songwriting, the evolution of his musical style, and navigating a transformed music industry. From cosmic guitar tones to introspective lyrics and societal themes, Empire is both a personal and sonic reinvention worth diving into.

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OBJECTS: Two-Man Giant Squid

Brooklyn dance punk band Two-Man Giant Squid shows us the OBJECTS that led to the creation of their recent self-titled album. Frontman Mitch Vinokur shares the production/mixing notes written across photos, documents and envelopes. Watch the first episode now!

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