Tag: albums/eps

[album] Pynch – Howling At A Concrete Moon

acute.pop

The debut record by Pynch just hits that sweet spot. It is a perfect record that should appeal to both people in their 30s (or older) who are nostalgic for those cool bands of the early 00s and also to young listeners, who might as well find their new favourite music group in them. Howling At A Concrete Moon is steeped in noughties electronica and indie rock, with each song having a special lo-fi touch and endless charm, underlined by clever and fun lyrics.

What is also important is that this LP is very modern. Instead of drawing inspiration from the past, Pynch set their own benchmarks. Spencer Enock touches on many crucial current themes in the songs to which listeners could definitely relate, and this makes the whole album even better.

There are simply no fillers here, be that re-recorded version of an early classic “Disco Lights”, a previously unheard fantastic two-part stomper “The City” (a real ode to the metropolitan malaise — a feeling familiar, probably, to any inhabitant of a big city), or what an already is a cult single “Somebody Else”. All these songs are just amazing. What we can do now is listen to the album on repeat from start to finish and do everything possible to see Pynch live.

Listen below and buy the record here.

[album] FACS – Still Life In Decay

acute.pop

Still Life In Decay, the newest album by Chicago trio FACS, is a stunning masterpiece. Experimental at its core, it is a perfect mix of post-punk, experimental rock, and ambient sounds that create a unique and captivating sonic landscape.

Since the release of Void Moments (2020), the group has been moving (and experimenting) in the same direction; moreover, the musicians dubbed their new LP as a continuation of the previous release Present Tense (2021). It has a lot of progressive guitar lines, echoey vocals and a general atmosphere of controlled chaos, like someone is keeping a barrage of dark energy in check.

The most striking thing here is, of course, the absence of gravity in music, and also perpetual motion. From the opening track “Constellation” to the closing song “New Flag”, FACS takes listeners on a journey through a range of emotions, moods, and textures. The songs are intricately crafted with layers of guitars, drums, and synths that build up and break down in unexpected ways. It is a bold and ambitious album that showcases FACS’s unique sound and vision.

Stream below and purchase the LP here, out now on Trouble In Mind Records.

[album] Teleman – Good Time/Hard Time

acute.pop

Teleman’s new album Good Time/Hard Time is a true musical sunbeam that showcases their incredible talent and versatility.

From start to finish, the record is filled with catchy hooks, infectious melodies, and clever lyrics that are sure to leave listeners humming along for days. What sets this album apart is the band’s ability to seamlessly blend different genres, from indie rock to synth pop, creating a sound that is both fresh and very cohesive, sounding just amazing under one umbrella.

Standout tracks include an anthemic opener “Short Life”, sweet “Easy Now I’ve Got You” and melodic indie disco stomper “Cherish”, but really, there isn’t a weak song on the LP. Another terrific addition to their discography.

Listen below and buy the release here.

[album] Crocodiles – Upside Down In Heaven

acute.pop

Crocodiles, a duo of Brandon Welchez and Charles Rowell, have been creating wonderfully fuzzy garage rock since forming in 2008, and today is the release date of their new LP Upside Down In Heaven.

Out now via Lolipop Records, it is a great example of the group’s ability to create music that is both accessible and experimental. The album is full of catchy hooks and memorable melodies, but also has enough depth and complexity to keep listeners engaged.

Obviously, it is a must-listen for all existing fans, but even if it is the first time you hear about Crocodiles — check it out now if you are a fan of all things noise, punk, rock and pop. You will get hooked immediately and be exploring their whole discography right after that.

Check it out below and purchase the album here.

[album] Deerhoof – Miracle​-​Level

acute.pop

Deerhoof‘s discography of almost two dozen releases may seem rather intimidating, but Miracle​-​Level is a great album to jump into the work of such a prolific band even for brand-new listeners. Despite the fact that Deerhoof sing in Japanese for the first time, with this release it is easy to understand how the band won their fan base.

The guitars intertwine, the drums shuffle, everything makes noise and buzzes, but most importantly — the record constantly evolves (even if there is one small change of rhythm behind the evolution). At the same time, Deerhoof don’t lose their identity and with each new album, they remind you of how else you can revive the familiar noise pop. With Miracle​-​Level, Deerhoof prove that they are still one of the most innovative bands in music today.

Stream below and buy the LP here.