NYC-based act My Friend Noel make their strong debut with the single “Wake Up Kid!” — a melodic, introspective success with rock and pop intertwining. “So many timelines, am I in the wrong life?” vocalist Katelyn Barr asks, ascending into a spirited central hook that culminates in a title-referencing contagiousness.
The reflective backing vocals prove charming, as does Kyle Reed’s subsequent guitar work that approaches the three-minute turn. The rhythm section, comprising drummer Ivy Wang and bassist Anna Young, maintain a steadily engrossing pulse amidst the escalating vocal infectiousness and “no plans, no friends,” brass-y ascent. “Wake Up Kid!” has us firmly anticipating release #2 from this rising band.
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
