Best of Indiepop 2018

Everyone has their own definition of indiepop; but I tend to ascribe to the original craft where DIY aesthetics and a softer response to punk were all the rage. But, to each their own. So I went through last year to compile what I think is a pretty all encompassing Best of Indiepop 2018; there’s no order, just a collection of really great indiepop. Some of the below are songs, some are albums, some are just bands or labels that were important. Click on for my picks and a playful playlist. Read more

The Treasures of Mexico Are Back

After wandering for separately for a few years, Mark and Bob of The Dentists fame joined together once more to form The Treasures of Mexico, releasing their debut Holding Pattern in 2015. Since then, we’ve been teased with the insatiable “Super Cute,” but now we have a new single…and an album announcement! Everything Sparks Joy will be released on October 5th via Shelflife, and you can have another track to whet your appetite below. Almost immediately, the song has a natural bounce; the drums seem to hop through the speakers, grabbing you in your arms and hopping up and down. Once the vocals enter calmly, things seemingly settle, though the cascading chorus guitar definitely drives home a heavier punch. As the song bounds, you’d be quite pleased to just appreciate the offering, but the band have other ideas, as they add a nice female accompanying vocal just before the 3 minute mark to build in an added sense of charm. You want timeless pop? Doesn’t get better than this! Pre-order the album HERE.

Jangling Pop from The Treasures of Mexico

We all swooned when Bob Collins and Mark Matthews of The Dentists fame dropped Holding Pattern as The Treasures of Mexico for Shelflife back in 2015, so I’m happily welcoming their energetic new single. It’s got just enough jangle, just enough ringing of guitars to grab my ears, but the push from the rhythm section really makes the song kick. Amidst it all, the vocals are direct and warm, and while the “crawling back to me” line could easily be for a loved one, I’m holding out reservations for some sly animal adoration hit. Regardless, hearing this song just makes you feel like the world is headed in the right direction. I’ll keep you posted on more new as we near the release of the group’s second LP.