Upbeat Pop from Lion’s Den

lionsdenI’ve got a soft spot for Swedish bands, and it looks like I’ll be adding Lion’s Den to the mix. They offer up a nice little blend of jagged pop rock…think the Hives but far less frantic. They’re working on their full-length at the moment, so they’ve tossed out this early teaser to get you anticipating their work. I’m partial to the instrumental jam that comes in the song’s latter half, building you up to fall back in love with the memorable hook of the final chorus. Feel like this is a good day to get back into the swing of the week. Look for their full length from Lazy Octopus Records.

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Dream Pop from Gems

gemsIn a few weeks we’ll be keeping our eyes on Hundred Waters as the much-hyped act comes into town.  But, I’ll be honest, I was rather underwhelmed by their SXSW performances, so I’m looking at the opener Gems to be the winner on the night.  The DC duo just released another single, with drifting melodies and nice bits of atmospheric production.  There’s no word on when they group will release something, but this track here should perk up your ears, and maybe even entice you to hit up their show at Red 7 on the 23rd.

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