OFF! – OFF! 7” (Vice)
Three and half minutes of bliss. Can’t wait to see these guys live.
Dag Nasty – Dag With Shawn (Dischord)
Recorded on Halloween in 1985, with the original lineup of Shawn Brown, Brian Baker, Colin Sears and Roger Marbury. This was supposed to come out as a 7” in 1986, but when Shawn left the band in February of that year the whole project was scrapped. No matter what you think of their later records and other singers, this represents the pure and undefiled original vision of the band as it was intended.
Overcasters at the Weather Center
Overcasters are a dark psych band from Denver featuring ex-*Tarmints* guitarist Kurt Ottaway. They are playing three shows each night next week at their rehearsal space / warehouse at 1401 Zuni Street. This band is all about spiraling shoegaze choruses and thick walls of guitars. Impressive to say the least. Website here
Sky Larkin – Kaleide (Wichita)
Second LP from this female fronted English rock band from Leeds. I love recordings that sound this full and bright. Introspective, engaging and fun lyrics, lots and lots of sonic experimentation. In terms of labeling, it’s hard to pigeonhole these guys. Great artwork as well. Two thumbs up.
Plastic Flower Anagrams Vol 1 (Act So Big Forest)
Five song compilation of different bands covering Thrifty Astronaut, a one man bedroom indie band from Ft. Collins. Features some great DIY Colorado indie bands: Robin Walker, Tall City, Turvy Organ, Pulled at 4 Pins and a piano demo of “Boys Who Huff Glue” from the man himself. Available for free here
The Entrance Band at Hi Dive
The Entrance Band (Ecstatic Peace) is playing at the Hi-Dive (7 South Broadway) on Sunday the 24th. Also appearing are Denver locals Hearts in Space and Houses.
Articles of Faith – New Normal Catastrophe (Alternative Tentacles)
New AoF EP, available as a 12” and as a digital download. Vic & Co have never been shy when it comes to blistering guitar riffs or politics, and for that we should all be grateful. Because it’s true, “they” are back with a vengeance.
Morrissey – Bona Drag – Remastered 20th Anniversary Edition (EMI)
Double LP remaster with new artwork and photos. The recent Moz reissues prove his 23 year battle for creative control over his work has been a dumb battle all along. The man is a living legend, and his work seems to be very clearly laid out in his mind before the executives start re-sequencing and packaging his records. After all, he was a record collector before he was a singer.
Kelley Stoltz – To Dreamers (Sub Pop)
Guitar based indie rock, 13 song LP. Great little songs, tons of harmony, lots of great 12 string guitar. “Pinecone” and “Fire Escape” are stand out tracks.
Future Islands – Undressed (Thrill Jockey)
Low-fi indie rock with a cello. Four song 12”, some interesting melodies and beats. Impressive rhythm section. Not sure what to make of the vocals. Sometimes they are clear and welcoming, other times they go overboard into operatics. Less Aaron Neville, more Peter Gabriel, please.
