I can’t believe these two albums are finally out. The Joy Hotel and Lava La Rue are two artists I’ve been following for a while, and they both released their debut album today.
The Joy Hotel - Ceremony [Album]
🗓️ July 19, 2024
🎶 Rock/Alternative
🪩 Similar Vibes: Imagine late-70s Pink Floyd making a collab album with The Last Dinner Party
I shared The Joy Hotel’s debut song, “Jeremiah,” in the first edition of my 3 under 30k series. The band followed up with three more singles before releasing their debut album today. I knew it would be great. I had very high expectations. And it still managed to be even better than I thought. “Ceremony” takes you on a ride through 13 epic Rock songs showcasing Emme Woods' standout vocals and spawns the immediate need to see them play live.
Lava La Rue - STARFACE [Album]
🗓️ July 19, 2024
🎶 Indie Pop (in a very broad sense)
🪩 Similar Vibes: David Bowie, Prince
At no point in listening to STARFACE could I predict what’s coming next. Lava La Rue created an impressive debut concept album. In 17 songs, they tell the story of a queer alien who crash-lands on Earth and then falls in love with a human girl. La Rue’s agenda: Make it sound like a lesbian Gen-Z version of Prince. Or: Ziggy Stardust. Besides ‘70s glam rock, the album was influenced by post-punk new wave, R&B, and Funk. STARFACE has it all, and for 51 minutes, Lava La Rue opens up their world, where you escape into a sensual and fun cosmic adventure.