If It's Too Loud...

Artist : COWBOY BOY Album : GOOD GIRL Quick Thoughts : While I don't know how I tripped up on COWBOY BOY, but it takes a lot for me not to be into a power pop band, and thus they charmed me from the very start. This is a quick hit album without any real negatives to point out - the vocals are great, the songs are fun while still being somewhat serious, and the whole package is a really solid listen from beginning to end. Songs of Note : "DREAM DREAM DREAM," "PET," "SHRINK," "INCONVENIENT" Artist : St. Lenox Album : Ten Songs of Worship and Praise for Our Tumultuous Times Quick Thoughts : St. Lenox does some earnest folk rock/indie pop, and this album does what it says on the tin: it's music about religion, but it's not religious music, if that makes any sense. St. Lenox lays it all out on the table, though - grappling with faith, belief (and the lack thereof), family... it's a heavy record in spite of its light presentatio...

Artist : Nervous Dater Album : Call In the Mess Quick Description : Excitable indie rock. Why You Should Listen : Nervous Dater is always fun. Overall Thoughts : I've been a fan of Nervous Dater for some time, and this new album might be their best yet. Songs like "Red String Map" and "Nothing Left" have some weight to go along with their intense, infectious songs. There's a whole lot to love here, and it's an album that should put them on the map if they're not already there as they deserve. Don't even think twice about this one. Recommendation : If you like indie rock, give this a spin. Artist : Julien Baker Album : Little Oblivions Quick Description : Long-awaited new album from an indie singer-songwriter. Why You Should Listen : Everything Julien Baker touches turns to gold. Overall Thoughts : Turn Out the Lights has been in consistent rotation in my house since it came out. There's something so raw and so compelling ab...