If It's Too Loud...

Artist : Dream Nails Album : You Wish Quick Thoughts : A fun, fuzzy February listen, I didn't really know / remember Dream Nails before Ken sent this one over and it is just a really great alt-rock record. "This is Water" is a standout, for sure, but I definitely want to highlight "House of Bones," which has some great harmonization with the mechanically great instrumentation. Don't sleep on this one. Songs of Note : "This is Water," "Organoid," "House of Bones," "The Information" Artist : Ratboys Album : Singin' to an Empty Chair Quick Thoughts : Ratboys are always pretty great, but this new album feels like a massive step forward for them in all the best ways. In an era where bands like Wednesday can flit between genres without a moment's notice, Ratboys somehow finds a way to ensure their roots-informed indie rock remains consistent even when leaning further into any particular direction. Hone...

Artist : Silversun Pickups Album : Physical Thrills Quick Thoughts : I think it was "Well-Thought Out Twinkles" that I fell in love with way, way back (and is a fun song to drum to on Rock Band , and they've kept up appearances pretty well with their Smashing Pumpkins Without the Conspiracy Theories rock over the years. This latest album is maybe my favorite since their second record, and has a few songs that would rightfully be considered classics of theirs at this stage. I feel like this band doesn't get their alt-rock due, and they really deserve better. Give this one a listen. Songs of Note : "Hereafter (Way After)," "Scared Together," "Empty Nest" Artist : Why Bonnie Album : 90 in November Quick Thoughts : "Galveston" hit some discovery playlist a few months back and it went on constant rotation. 90 in November is a wonderful slice of indie rock with a ton of great songs and a fun presentation. If you like the s...

A pretty stacked new release week this week. Album of the Week : Artist : CHVRCHES Album : Every Open Eye Quick Description : Sophomore effort by one of the most buzzed-about bands going right now. Why You Should Listen : You found their version of synth-heavy indie rock appealing during their first album; you like staying on top of the trends. Overall Thoughts : In a way, CHVRCHES couldn't win with this album. The anticipation was huge, the mythology behind things ever-growing. Somehow, some way, Every Open Eye improves upon the sound we all fell for while still feeling familiar and fresh. No sophomore slump here, and definitely the best releases of the week. Recommendation : A must listen for all. Artist : The Dead Weather Album : Dodge and Burn Quick Description : Latest outing from the Jack White rock side project. Why You Should Listen : You've missed the heavy grit of The Dead Weather; you're totally into anything Jack White does. Overall Thoughts ...