A hooky dose of pop and rock nostalgia from Mariela, “Brandy” engages in both its twinkling synth brightness and bass-driven build there. The Southern California-based band drives delightfully into the “Brandy, all I know is your name,” hook, cautioning “I think I’m in danger,” as chirpy guitars and playful synths combine for a replay-inducing dose of throwback charm. The initial synth-laden radiance takes hold against amidst wordless vocals for a lovely bridge, reminiscent of Cut Copy. “Brandy” is a winning blend of rock and pop from Mariela.
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.