Soft Palms Makes a Triumphant Return with New Single "Radio": Watch the Accompanying Video

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. The Sound of "Radio"
4. Accompanying Music Video
5. Community Engagement and Future Aspirations
6. The Road to Grammy Consideration
7. Looking Ahead: New Album Release
8. Conclusion
9. FAQ

Key Highlights

• New Music Release: The duo Soft Palms, consisting of Julia Kugel and Scott Montoya, has released their first single "Radio" since 2020.
• Musical Themes: The song addresses the alienation caused by divisive media and the culture of negativity prevalent in society.
• Music Video: The track is accompanied by a thought-provoking music video that reflects on themes of surveillance and judgment.
• Grammy Aspirations: The couple is aiming for Grammy consideration for their upcoming album, marking a significant step in their musical journey.
• Community Engagement: Soft Palms actively contributes to their local music scene through initiatives like the Happy Sundays festival and their nonprofit organization, Studios for Schools.

Introduction

In a world where music often reflects the societal climate, the husband-and-wife duo Soft Palms returns to the music scene with a powerful new single, "Radio." After a five-year hiatus since their self-titled debut in 2020, Julia Kugel and Scott Montoya have crafted a track that encapsulates feelings of alienation amid today’s divisive media landscape. As they prepare to release their sophomore album later this year, they carry not just the weight of their creative output but also ambitions for Grammy accolades for the first time.

The significance of composite voices in music has rarely been underscored as much as it is now, making "Radio" not just a song but a commentary on how audiences consume information and feel connection—or the lack thereof.

The Sound of "Radio"

"Radio" begins with Montoya's dynamic drumming, setting the stage for Kugel's energetic guitar riffs that mirror the tension of the track’s message. The song is described as a progression from their previous work, illustrating their growth as artists while remaining committed to their core styles.

Kugel, known for her work with bands like The Coathangers, and Montoya, a former member of The Growlers, blend their unique influences to produce a sound that resonates with both longtime fans and new listeners. The song's lyrics explore contemporary themes such as the alienation often felt in society, largely fueled by the echo chambers of negativity that dominate media narratives.

The Message Behind the Music

According to Montoya, "Radio" reflects the pervasive nature of media and its cyclical negativity. “We often hear secondhand information, and it distorts our perception,” he explains. “Our goal is to address these issues in a way that provokes thought and dialogue." The track encourages listeners to confront reality rather than simply accept it at face value.

Accompanying Music Video

Reinforcing the song's themes, the official music video for "Radio" utilizes night vision imagery and surveillance aesthetics to visualize concepts of observation and judgment. The video creatively employs symbolic representations, such as surveillance cameras and projected messages, to evoke feelings of being watched—a sentiment that has become increasingly prevalent in today’s digital age.

Celebration of Creativity and Artistry

This artistic approach is reflective of the couple's background in the arts. By combining their respective experiences across various music genres, Soft Palms has established a distinctive identity. Their collaborations, both musical and visual, enhance their narrative and broaden their appeal within the independent music scene.

Community Engagement and Future Aspirations

Beyond their artistic contributions, Soft Palms is dedicated to enriching their community. Their annual free festival, Happy Sundays, has become a cornerstone for local musicians, providing them with a platform to showcase their talents. Scheduled for August 23-25, this year's festival promises to bring together various artists at multiple Long Beach venues.

Moreover, the duo's nonprofit initiative, Studios for Schools, seeks to empower the next generation of musicians by providing schools with essential equipment and funding to create recording and production spaces. Such endeavors have positioned them as not only creative artists but also as key players in the development of the local music community.

The Road to Grammy Consideration

In a recent interview, Montoya mentioned their intention to submit "Radio" and their full album for Grammy consideration. “Julia and I have over 40 years combined experience in music. This will be our combined 352nd track on our 46th release, but it’s the first time we’ve ever thought to submit our work to the Recording Academy,” he shared. This marks a shift in their career as they embrace recognition from mainstream awards, challenging the stigma that independent artists face within the industry.

Montoya notes that while many associate the Grammys with pop mainstream artists, the awards have opened up to recognize diverse genres. “The Grammys are not just for pop artists," he argues. "Good music comes in many forms, and we believe our work deserves a chance at being recognized.”

Looking Ahead: New Album Release

The upcoming album, set for release later this year through Everloving Records, will showcase a blend of their signature eclectic sound alongside the new thematic focuses developed in "Radio." As Soft Palms capitalizes on the momentum of their latest release, fans can expect more deeply resonant music that aims to provoke thought and ignite conversation.

Conclusion

Soft Palms' return with "Radio" signifies not just a resurgence in their creative journey but a testament to their enduring impact within the independent music scene. With a compelling commentary on the state of media and community focus, the duo is poised to make waves in both artistic and social realms. Through their music, they rekindle connections, challenge perceptions, and ultimately contribute to the evolving narrative of what it means to be artists in today's world.

FAQ

What is "Radio" about?

"Radio" addresses the divisive nature of media and the resultant feelings of alienation in society. It aims to encourage listeners to confront and critically analyze the information they consume.

Who are Soft Palms?

Soft Palms is a duo formed by Julia Kugel and Scott Montoya, known for their eclectic sound and community engagement efforts in the music industry.

When was "Radio" released?

The single "Radio" was released on April 11, 2025, marking the first new music from Soft Palms in five years.

What are Soft Palms’ future plans?

The duo plans to release their sophomore album later this year and intends to submit their work for Grammy consideration, aiming to secure recognition for their contributions to music.

How does Soft Palms engage with their local community?

Soft Palms actively participates in community initiatives such as the Happy Sundays music festival and their nonprofit organization, Studios for Schools, which provides resources for aspiring young musicians.