Ok Cowgirl Wows the Brooklyn Rock Scene

July 31, 2024 by Giulia Arlia

OK Cowgirl #2-photo courtesy of the artists from their Facebook page

In Conversation /photo courtesy of the artists

Ok Cowgirl is an indie rock band based in Brooklyn, whose contagious energy empowers them from the recording studio to the stage. The band, formed by lead singer and songwriter Leah Lavigne, drummer Matt Birkenholz, guitarist Jake Sabinsky, and bassist John Miller, excites fans
through their psychedelic and dream rock soundscapes. It is evident that the group is influenced by past hits from rock bands such as Cranberries and No Doubt, while adding their own flavor through vulnerable lyrics and captivating guitar lines.

Our Love / album cover art

While most of the band’s discography thrives on the dream rock genre, their latest single, “Larry David,” comments both musically and lyrically on the stresses of city life. Lavigne’s passionate and layered lead vocals set this song apart from previous releases, as her rage and frustration resonates with all kinds of city goers. The listener can feel the band’s chaotic collaboration in the song, almost as if they are riding the New York City subways or running around the bustling New York City streets.

OK Cowgirl photo- courtesy of the artists

On A Stairwell / photo courtesy of the artists

The band further motivates their vision through the regular release of music videos. The latest video for the “Larry David” single shows Lavigne singing of feeling lost and unable to keep up with city lifestyle as the band and her, each dressed up as the honest and unapologetic Larry David, parade around New York City. This new video is one of the band’s many, with other visuals for “Little Splinters” and “Forever” embracing a more retro feel to compliment the chill percussive statements and melodic dreamscapes.

Ok Cowgirl is steadily releasing singles to preface their highly anticipated debut LP, “Couldn’t Save Us From My Gut,” set to be released on August 16th. One more single, “Our Love” was released on July 31st. The album will also be taken to the stage, with an album release party and showcase on the record’s release date at Brooklyn Made – you won’t want to miss it!

Artists on our Radar

Janet LaBelle Takes the Spotlight: Blending Vintage Vibes with Modern Magic

Janet Labelle With Guitar In Hand / photo by John Nyboer

Dynamic Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter Janet LaBelle continues to push her creative boundaries. Known for her unique ability to fuse analog warmth with modern production, LaBelle has been praised by Jersey Beat for her “sweet voice and sharp, thoughtful songwriting,” and her newest projects are no exception. Her music defies easy categorization, effortlessly blending elements of folk, classic rock, and pop into a sound that feels both fresh and timeless. LaBelle recently released her single “Day in the Sun” on September 13 via her own Wild Violet Records, and it has already been captivating audiences with its sunny melodies and deeply personal narrative. The song, inspired by a meaningful hike with a friend in 2023, showcases her talent for finding beauty in simplicity, a theme that resonates through much of her work. The inclusion of horns marks an exciting creative evolution, adding a new layer of depth to her already richly textured sound. Throughout her career, LaBelle has explored a wide range of musical styles. She first made waves as a teenager in the punk-pop band Avery, and since then, her solo work has spanned genres like classic rock, folk, pop, and even French chanson. Her previous EPs, including Moon Songs (2010) and Blossom & Blue (2011), demonstrate her eclectic tastes, with influences ranging from surf rock to vintage country. Working with respected producers such as Evan Taylor (Bernie Worrell) and Tony Maimone (Pere Ubu, They Might Be Giants), LaBelle continues to expand her sound, evolving with each new release. Fans can catch her live at upcoming performances, including a show at Our Wicked Lady on September 24th and at Sleepwalk on December 3rd. These live shows will give listeners a chance to hear both her new and classic material in an up-close setting. Her combination of memorable songs, captivating performances and a unique voice sets her apart as an artist who continues to rise, drawing listeners in with every new creation.

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