Cool American Infinite Hiatus
Self-proclaimed “dorito pop” Portland four-piece Cool American released Infinite Hiatus on bandcamp at the beginning of June, but might best be played at the beginning of December: the melancholic delivery of the vocal performance tint each song with a wistful energy, and in the case of the title track, paint a solemn picture ideal for lonely dark months. Long live guitar bands!
Standout Track: “Great at Parties”
Bleachers Gone Now
Bleachers’ sophomore album is another case of more-of-the-same syndrome, but when the debut album is as good as Strange Desire, it’s not such a terrible ailment from which to suffer. The choruses are still big, the vocals have the same filters, the 80s vibe is still loud and clear…but every touch is welcomed back for Bleachers fans.
Standout Track: “Everybody Lost Somebody”
Calvin Harris Funk Wav Bounces Vol. 1
It’s hard not to like, at least a little, an album that’s just a pile of dancable pop tunes from recognizable names…and this one trumps the new DJ Kalid project Grateful. As a disclaimer, however, the Nikki Minaj track is complete garbage and should not be bothered with for any reason.
Standout Track: “Heatstroke” ft. Young Thug, Pharrell Williams, Ariana Grande
Tigers of Youth Rapture and Gravity EP
Portland’s TOY have released their debut EP and it captures the band’s excellent songwriting and lyrical compositions by frontman Dave Wentz. The smooth vocals and equally smooth guitar tones seduce the ears and make the EP feel like a full experience. Here’s to hoping they get some attention soon.
Standout Track: “Simple Treason”
Other Solid Releases: Lorde Melodrama ; Vince Staples Big Fish Theory
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