Music by Kota drops new EP

Hailing from Jackson in Tennessee, Music By Kota is a 5-piece rock and roll outfit that showcases their sonic versatility through a blend of of rock, blues and folk. The band features musicians Dakota Jackson on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Conner Blakley on keys and vocals, lead guitarist Ryan Young, Bryton Wallace on drums and bass player Alex Taylor.

Together, they draw on their musical talent as well as their deep-rooted friendship, which spans a decade and infuses their performances with genuine chemistry. This ensemble recently signed with No Reverse Records, a leading indie label led by Ashley Kate Adams, Lauren “LOLO” Pritchard and Mitchell Walker.

Their latest release, the brand new EP Nuclear – Wave One, marks the first instalment of a trilogy, released under the banner of No Reverse Records. This EP serves up a journey that recounts the tale of the enigmatic Bomb Shelter Kid character.

Opening with the lead single, “Bomb Shelter Kid,” the track introduces listeners to Music By Kota’s distinctive indie rock sound. The song starts with hazy, stuttered samples, grounded by the rhythmic notes of an acoustic guitar. As the band’s bright instrumentation kicks in, led by shimmering guitar chords, laid-back drums and pulsing bass lines, Dakota Jackson’s sensational vocals take flight. The chorus delivers an infectious blend of catchy melodies and bluesy charm, showcasing their exceptional songwriting panache and musicianship.

Lively indie rock anthem “Joe’s Place” follows with a shuffling drumbeat, accompanied by lightly gritty guitars. The track is filled with spirited vocal rhythms and bursts of energetic instrumental flourishes. Halfway through, the tempo and vibe shift, unveiling a smoky country sound with twangy lead guitar licks that lead to a triumphant country rock climax.

“Homewrecker” creates a mysterious ambiance with piquant guitar notes, bass guitar lines and gently snapping drums. Dakota’s swaggering vocals hover above the instrumentation and the song erupts into an emphatic indie rock chorus. It smoothly flows from charged rock n’ roll to whimsical, psychedelic moments before culminating in a rousing crescendo, marked by epic call-and-response vocals.

The EP closes with “Mr. Walker,” a grooving rock jam driven by Tom Morello-worthy guitar riffs, punchy drums and compelling vocal stretches. The song launches into an uptempo chorus brimming with infectious hooks and driving energy. It’s a funk-infused rock anthem that serves as a powerful final showcase of the band’s captivating rock sound on their superb new EP.

Nuclear – Wave One was produced and mixed by Bryton Wallace and mastered by multi-Grammy-winning engineer Oscar Zambrano of Zampol Productions, known for his work with artists like Harry Styles, Sting and Arcade Fire. Commenting on the release, lead singer Dakota Jackson shares, “This is our first truly collaborative project. Each song incorporates elements of our individual styles and influences, resulting in something truly unique.”

Listen to Nuclear – Wave One below