There’s no way I’m going to miss out on posting my favorite music of the last two years. Here’s a rundown of some amazing stuff that was released by local Spokane musicians. Stream it, buy it, follow them on IG, FB, etc.

13. The South Hill – Half It All

The South Hill have kind of a Band of Horses vibe with expansive songs. I love the lead singer’s voice and it sure shines on their debut record.

12. The Misty Mountain Pony Club – Just me & the moon

Sally and Milo are just two of my favorite people. MMPC is their old time duo project. It’s laid back and nostalgic and perfect for a hot summer afternoon sipping lemonade on the porch. You may remember Sally from our collect sessions with her sister duo Dry & Dusty.

11. Summer In Siberia – ymyh

This Summer in Siberia Ep is a great jam. It’s a synth nerd paradise you can dance to.

10. JANGO – Alone by Choice

Jango has been a key player in leading the way towards Spokane having a legitimate hip hop/rap scene. His debut album Alone By Choice is a quality 7 song album full of catchy tunes with personal introspective layers.

9. Lavoy – Mazza EP

Lavoy is Spokane’s go-to indie pop band. Their MAZZA EP is sparkly and anthemic. My favorite track is Chicago which has a rad music video produced by Factory Town.

8. Chris Molitor – Coming Home

Chris was new to town when I stopped posting on Collect. He’s been an amazing addition to our local folk-songwriter scene and released an amazing record in 2017. His vibrato is so lovely and songs are full of comfort. He’s also had some amazing success with licensing his music and is a fantastic producer.

7. The Emilys – Speeding Kills

The Emilys are ranking up near my favorite local bands right now. They are so much fun live. They have a serious Interpol vibe and I’m here for it.

6. Atari Ferrari – Rebel

Atari Ferrari have put out back to back records the last two years. They have a dreamy sound, catchy riffs and serious hustle. The lead singer Matthew has also managed to continue his solo project Automatic Shoes and start a new project Ataurus Minor.

5. Indian Goat – 2

Indian Goat put out back to back records in the last two years as well. 1 and 2. They know how to go big. They’ve climbed to the top as far as local bands go in my book with their undeniably anthemic heavy blues rock.

4. Eliza Catastrophe – I

Eliza Catastrophe went by Violet Catastrophe for a while and released a delightful 6 song EP produced by the very badass Caleb Ingersoll. It’s so much fun and definitely hasn’t been heard by enough people. Eliza’s writing is witty and sarcastic but thoughtfully crafted. Each chord and melody are completely intentional.

3. Gabriella Rose – Lost in Translation

Speaking of Chris Molitor being a great producer, he crafted this incredible record by 17 year old songwriter Gabriella Rose. It’s just lovely and smart unique and one of my favorite local records probably of all time.

2. Water Monster – Tensus

Max really outdid himself on Water Monster’s debut full length record. He played everything except guitar (played by Scott Ryan) and it’s an epic masterpiece. It deserves some attentive listening for thoughtful themes on the tensions of life. If you don’t have an hour to listen to the whole thing, turn up the volume for a play through Lavish Life…one of my favorite songs of all time.

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1. BaLonely – Stories

Number 1! My favorite Spokane band, BaLonely just nailed it on Stories, their 2018 debut record. Gosh it is just good music, plain and simple. Track 2 is my favorite if you need a starting point but definitely give the whole thing a listen and check them out live.