5 Songs I Love w/ Burden's Landing

Following the release of their latest single, "Blank Page", Flex caught up with Burden's Landing frontman Noah Mullinax to find out what fuels their explosive alternative rock sound. Blending grunge, punk, shoegaze and indie rock influences, the Washington, DC band channel raw emotion into powerful, cathartic songs that confront self-doubt, resilience and personal growth. If you enjoy Burden's Landing's picks, be sure to check out "Blank Page" at the end of the article.

1. "Control" by Mannequin Pussy

I’ve listened to this track and this record so many times. I saw a few Mannequin Pussy live a few times right before I started Burden’s Landing. Their music and shows really inspired me and reignited my fire to make punk music. This song has it all; a great chord progression, great vocals and lyrics, and perfect instrumentation. I love how they ebb between tenderness and aggression. I have been having a lot of fun playing with that dynamic when writing Burden’s Landing songs.

2. "Soft Stud" by Black Belt Eagle Scout

I vividly remember hearing this song for the first time. I was driving in the car with my brother late at night and this track came on. The guitar tone and singing style really stood out to me. I love how the song progresses. It’s really just one chord progression that enters different phases. I really like the idea that a song can be just one simple riff. The guitar solo in the outro is all vibes. I had the pleasure of seeing her live a few times and the songs really came to life. I listened to this song and record a lot when I started Burden’s Landing

3. "Breed" by Nirvana

I mean what is there not to love about this song? The riff is just gnarly. This song was a model for my song “Hallucination”. The whole song is built around that 4 beat guitar riff. It punches you in the face from the start and never lets up.

4. "Not" by Big Thief

Each time I hear this song I just need to stop and listen. It’s simply brilliant. The lyrics and vocal delivery demand attention. I’d love to be able to write a song like this at some point. I consider Adrianne Lenker one of the best songwriters making music right now. Her solo at the end is totally destructive and expressive. The band’s groove and additions don’t try to overtake anyone else's playing. The band plays together. I try to emulate that approach when arranging Burden’s Landing songs.

5. "Dog and Pony Show" by Shellac

This song was a big inspiration for a new song we are working on right now. It’s gritty. It’s in your face. It’s not predictable. It’s singular–not trying to sound like any other band but finding its own voice and running with it. I don’t want to make music that sounds like everything else being produced right now or sounds just like another artist. Shellac is a huge inspiration.

Listen to Blank Page