Season 2 are Claudia Serfaty (keys/vocals), Freya McLeod (guitar/vocals), Matt Powell (guitar/vocals), Charlotte Zarb (bass/vocals), and Carolyn Hawkins (drums/vocals). Power of Now is out via Upset the Rhythm and Spoilsport Records.
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Season 2 - Power of Now
Saturday, May 16, 2026
Prism Shores - Softest Attack
In our memories, Montreal band Prism Shores walked the boundary between guitar pop and shoegaze, and they did it well -- familiar but with just enough individual character to stand out from the crowd. But our expectations for Softest Attack, their new album, required readjustment upon the first listen. On this new outing the band leans hard into indie pop and jangle, and they do it with flair and a keen understanding of the diversity of the genre. The sound is bright and clear, the arrangements detailed and the instrumentation rich and layered. But there is nothing twee about the outing -- the amps are turned up and the rhythm section rocks. To our ears Softest Attack could represent Creation Records as well as Sarah Records, while evoking Teenage Fanclub and New Zealand's The Bats. If you like indie jangle and fuzzy indie rock, you owe it to yourself to check out this album.
Prism Shores are Jack MacKenzie (guitar/bass/vocals), Ben Gross (guitar/bass/vocals), Luke Pound (drums/guitar/vocals), and Finn Dalbeth (guitar/vocals). Softest Attack is our now via Meritorio Records.
Wednesday, April 29, 2026
"This Is Our Life" by Nina Winder-Lind
We were not previously familiar with Nina Winder-Lind or The New Eaves, the band of which she is a member. But we are quite taken with her new single "This Is Our Life". The song begins with restraint. But as it nears the first minute it opens up into a rousing folk pop romp. Coupled with an appealing video, we needed to play it through a half-dozen times to jump start our day. We will be looking forward to more gems from this Brighton-based Swede.
Tuesday, April 28, 2026
"All Your Yesterdays" by The Hanging Stars
Today brings our ears "All Your Yesterdays" -- a perfect slice of jangle pop by London's The Hanging Stars. The vocals, guitars and introspective lyrics recall the warmth of Laurel Canyon guitar pop and makes us yearn for more. And more we will get, as this single is the second song shared from the band's upcoming LP Just A Day. If we participated in the betting markets, we would be tempted to bet that it will be one of our favorites this year.
The Hanging Stars are Richard Olson (guitars/vocals), Patrick Ralla (guitars/keys/vocals), Paul Milne (bass/vocals), and Paulie Cobra (drums/percussion/vocals). Just A Day will be out June 19 via Loose Music.
Sunday, April 26, 2026
Kitchenettes - Sunday Best 7"
As it is Sunday, we think it is time to put on our Sunday Best. For you, putting on your Sunday best may be your best outfit, and we do not intend to dissuade you. You need to do you, and in our opinion too many people dress like they have a poor self image. But for us, Sunday Best also means a wonderful 7" by San Francisco project Kitchenettes. The members are Morgan, Emily, and Sequoia, whose collective resume includes bands The Umbrellas, Telephone Numbers, and The Snogs. The recording consists of three delicate and charming songs that warmly reflect '80s - '90s girl-group pop. We can only hope that this 7" prompts the Kitchenettes to continue writing and recording.
Sunday Best is available in vinyl from three labels (pick your continent!): Slumberland Records in the US, Meritorio Records in Europe, and Galaxy Train in Japan. Digital downloads also are available at the Slumberland and Galaxy Train links below.
Thursday, April 23, 2026
Softjaw - Softjaw
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The sun is out and Springtime is invading out world. In such times, our musical interests expand to music with a wide scope and a tempo that invites driving on the open roads in a convertible -- even if we are stuck in an office. Fortunately, Long Beach indie rockers Softjaw understand us. They know we need crunchy, riff and hook infused traveling music with power pop harmonies. And that is just what they delivered in their debut, self-titled mini-LP.
The core of the band is the duo of Tanner Duffy and Dustin Lovelis, who write all of the songs (except for the occasional cover of a song by a worthy such as Paul Collins). Softjaw is out now via Oakland's Dandy Boy Records.
Wednesday, April 8, 2026
"Lorene" by Maxwell Farrington and Le SuperHomard
Well, that's us blown away. It is the fault of Maxwell Farrington & Le SuperHomard (aka Christophe Vaillant) via their new single "Lorene". A cinematic dream pop gem, the song recalls classic French pop. Farrington's evocatively melancholy vocals are balanced by lush orchestration and the backing vocals of Lily Buchanan. After hearing "Lorene" we discovered that it was the third single from the duo's upcoming LP, titled Window Tax. The album is out April 24 via Talitres, and we look forward to discussing it here at that time.
Tuesday, April 7, 2026
Research Vessel - Part of the Charm EP
Friday, April 3, 2026
Ceylon Sailor - The Tiny Wave EP
On of the simple delights of life that helps make our day is getting new music from a band previously unknown to us. One recent such occurrence was an email with a link to The Tiny Wave, a four-track EP from Brooklyn, New York band Ceylon Sailor. What king of music? Well, it is guitar pop. But it also is indie rock. And some quite definitely (we think) is what some call yacht rock (for the record, we like yachts, especially if G&Ts are being served). What's more -- there are horns! And to our ears, it all mixes together is an upbeat, even euphoric wall of sound that is going to carry us through this weekend. It is just what we needed, because with the price of gas we certainly aren't driving anywhere this weekend. Sail on, Ceylon Sailor!
The sailors in this crew are KM Sigel, Kieran Kelly, Andrew Wood, Dave Long, Paul Brodhead, and Seth Ondracek.
Monday, March 30, 2026
"Doing Donuts" by Matti Jasu
Perhaps we should apologize at the outset, because "Doing Donuts" is one of those songs that invades your brain and won't let go. You may find yourself humming it in the lunch line, or while waiting for the bus. It just won't let go. And why should it? It puts a bounce in your step, prompts you to stand taller and gives you a jolt of energy. The lyrics aren't quite as happy as all that, focusing on societal rot and a personal feeling of going in circles. But damn, it is a fine song!
The artist is Turku, Finland musician and songwriter Matti Jasu. The song is a digital single and is out now. See the Bandcamp link below.
"Thirty-Seven Forever" by Rural France
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As war continues in the Mideast, prices rise and the markets fall, we desperately needed a song to make us feel happy on this Monday morning. Fortunately, the boys of UK band Rural France came to the rescue with the irrepressible "Thirty-Seven Forever". With the universal theme of resisting getting old and meaty riffs and a dose of distortion, it brought a smile to our face and made us feel alive and resilient until our financial advisor called.
"Thirty-Seven Forever" is the second single from the band's upcoming Sloths album, which will be released May 8 via Meritorio Records and Safe Suburban Home Records.
Rural France are Tom Brown and Rob Frawkes. For this album they are joined by Jeff Hamm on drums. John Hare plays horns on two album tracks.
Wednesday, March 25, 2026
"Paper Doll" by Yea-Ming and the Rumors
One of our favorite vocalists is Yea-Ming Chen of Yea-Ming and the Rumors. They are gracing the world with a new album titled Residue on June12 via Dandy Boy Records. And if you want to know why Yea-Ming is a vocalist we hold in high esteem, or if you just want to hear a really good song, check out "Paper Doll" below. For Yea-Ming, the song is introspective and deeply felt. But even if you don't connect with that vibe, we expect you will agree that it is a striking slice of indie pop.
In addition to Yea-Ming, the band consists of Eoin Galvin, Rob Good, and Luke Robbins.
Monday, March 23, 2026
"Luck" by Sumos
That scuzzy indie rock sound from Manchester never fails to excite. Today it comes to us via "Luck", the first single and title track from the forthcoming EP from Manchester four-piece Sumos. Melodic, tightly constructed and dynamic, the song suggests that the band has continued to build on its strengths since its 2023 debut LP Surfacing.
Sumos was formed by Joel Sloan and Kyle Tarbuck, and now also includes Siobhan McKnight and Andrew Kilroy. Luck will be released May 8 via Meritorio Records and Safe Suburban Home records.
Sunday, March 22, 2026
"Ways of the World" and "Muscle Memory" by Telephone Romeo
Please meet Aleksi Skippari, a Finnish musician and producer. He has announced that his project Telephone Romeo has come of age, and will be fully unveiled June 5 via his self-titled debut album. You can sample Aleksi's robust and wide ranging talent on two single releases from the album, "Ways of the World" and "Muscle Memory". The first is a rollicking garage rocker, the second is a soaring synth banger. Very good stuff, we think.
The ten track album will be released via Soliti Music. Aleksi sang and played guitars, bass, and keyboards. Samuli Kesti played the drums.
Thursday, March 19, 2026
The Just Joans - Romantic Visions of Scotland
There are bands that sing about mutual love, sunshine, puppies, triumphs, redemption and similar uplifting things. Then there are The Just Joans. This band makes us happy by singing about disappointments, regrets, failures, shipwrecked romances and the other bits and bobs we call real life. And it all goes down well because they do it with a keep eye, sharp wit, and warmth. The music is damn fine as well, recalling the best of shaggy UK indie pop.
On Romantic Visions of Scotland, the band's recent release, the humor on offer is evident just by perusing the song titles, such as "Strictly Presbyterian", "Back On The Meds", "Romantic Visions (Prepare For Disappointment)", and "Drinking On A Weeknight". Moreover, The Just Joans include lyrics to enhance the listener's enjoyment of the songs. And those of us who have ever sought inspiration to write a song can only admire the band's knack for turning an ordinary event of daily life into a tasty slice of pop music. Please listen to the album and see if you agree with our assessment that this band is a indie pop treasure.
The Just Joans are David Pope and Kate Pope, joined on this album by Chris Elkin, Fraser Ford, Arion Xenos and Jason Sweeney. Additional contributions were made by Maya Burman-Roy (cello), Fenwick Lawson (trombone), and Stuart Pollack (trumpet). Romantic Visions of Scotland is out now via Fika Recordings.
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
"Lonely Hearts Pyramid Scheme" by Rural France
Fresh from the UK, we have the new single by Rural France, and we think this song may resonate some music fans. The winners of the world get adulation, riches, and most of what everyone strive for. But who thinks of the losers? Rural France, that's who. "Lonely Hearts Pyramid Scheme" is an anthem for those of us unsuccessful at love (by the way, the "us" is the royal "us" -- we would never admit to being unsuccessful at love). "Lonely Hearts Pyramid Scheme" is a lively, soaring tune and the first single to be shared from the upcoming LP Sloths. We know we are going to love it.
Rural France are Tom Brown and Rob Frawkes. For this album they are joined by Jeff Hamm on drums. John Hare plays horns on this single and on one other album track. Sloths will be released May 8 via Meritorio Records and Safe Suburban Home Records.
Sunday, March 15, 2026
Hater - Mosquito
Malmo, Sweden's Hater has justifiably gathered increasing respect and a growing fanbase with their first three albums. But rather than capitalizing on that success by quickly cranking out a fourth album, the band took three years to create the recently released Mosquito. Was that because the band knew that the bar for excellence keeps rising, or because good art takes a long time? We don't know what answer the band would provide (although it seems to us that the answer to both questions likely it "yes"). However, we do know that the result of their efforts is exhilarating and satisfying. The album is intensely introspective and bittersweet while simultaneously shimmering and pulsing with energy. Hater writes good songs reflecting bittersweet romance, dark romance and more than a touch of the surreal. And the writing is matched by the performances -- arena level drumming, throbbing bass, inspired guitar and a highly evocative vocals. Is it their best album so far? We think so. And more significantly, we think it is one of the best rock/pop albums of the year so far.
Hater are Caroline Landahl, Mans Leonartsson, Rasmus Andersson, and Adam Agace. Mosquito is out now via Fire Records.
Friday, March 6, 2026
Railcard - Railcard
Why Railcard (in addition to the name)? Well, if you like the music of Heavenly, Talulah Gosh, Papernut Cambridge and Dolly Mixture, you naturally would want to give a chance to a band that features members of those bands. The listener will note elements of chamber pop, a bit of effervescent dance pop, jangle, psychedelic pop and some delicious tracks that will bring to mind how much you loved Stereolab. Lush, melodic, and yet, at times, muscular, the album is a varied and high level treat for any indie pop fan. It has become a staple of our weekend soundtrack and likely will remain so for quite some time.
For fans that recall the two recent EPs from the band, this album includes both EPs and three new tracks.
Railcard are Peter Momtchiloff, Ian Button, and Rachel Love. Railcard is out now via Sumberland Records and Skep Wax Records.
Wednesday, March 4, 2026
Fort Not - You On Repeat
When we first discovered Fort Not we were infused with that special conceit that music obsessives feel when they know of a thrilling artist of which most people aren't aware. But with their third full length now released, we are impatient for everyone to know just how good this Swedish band is. Their new album is titled You On Repeat. It's themes include bittersweet perspectives on relationships, with interesting and sometimes surprising wordplay. But the highlight is the music. For us, their brand of lo fi guitar pop is timeless, although music historians might nod towards the '90s. The solid rhythmic structure supports distorted and jangling guitars and earworm melodies. The band's sweet spot is expansive, encompassing slacker, power pop and sometimes a bit of country rock. The vibe is immediate, intimate and with just enough loose garage pop threads to let you dream that they are playing inside your living room. It is early in 2026, but I think this album will be on our yearly treasures list come December.
Fort Not are original members Robert Carlsson and Fredrik Soderstrom, joined by Philip Gates, David Hansson, Stefan Stromberg, and Joakim Bjornberg. You On Repeat is out now via Meritorio Records.
Friday, February 27, 2026
Heavenly - Highway to Heavenly
We expect that immediately after arriving at the concept of heaven - a post death locale of eternal bliss and joy - mankind began to work on achieving heaven on earth. We also expect that such efforts mostly result in failure, or at best somewhat satisfying temporary slices of "almost heaven". Of course, just as beauty is in the eye of the beholder, everyone can judge for themselves whether they have grabbed a slice of almost heaven. For our part, we are here to announce that our little slice of heaven on earth has arrived in the form of the appropriately-named Highway to Heavenly, the new album from '90s indie pop darlings Heavenly.
It is the first Heavenly album in 30 years, but the members have been busy with other projects -- together and separately -- for much of the intervening years. There is much that is amazing, even magical, in the album. Instead of a nostalgia trip or a tentative venture to shake of the rust, Highway to Heavenly is manifestly of a band hitting full stride as if several album into a career on a sharp ascent. The performances are energetic and assured, the vocals by Amelia and Cathy are sweet and sassy, and there is strong thematic sense of clear-eyed perspective and wry humor. This is a band that can laugh at you, and laugh at themselves and their foibles even harder. While the band continues to flash its pop smarts, Heavenly also is quite clearly a rock band in this outing, and the album is stronger for it. Our favorite songs vary, but that reflects the overall strength of the offerings. We've included a selection of our current repeat plays below. This album earns a very strong recommendation, so we urge you to give it a listen.
Heavenly are Amelia Fletcher, Cathy Rogers, Peter Momtchiloff, Rob Pursey, and Ian Button. The album is out today in vinyl, CD and digital formats via Skep Wax Records.
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