The Sour Notes Release More is the Pity

Over the last year or so, the Sour Notes have toyed with what I can only describe as genius marketing! They’ve carefully curated an entire album, releasing it a 7″ at a time on limited pressings; we’ve covered many of those singles here on the site. But, but, but! Today you can actually grab all the songs united in their intended format on the brand new More is the Pity LP! I think of my favorite tunes, “Enough” is definitely one of the immediate go-to tracks on the album, though, the Felt fan in me also views “Blank” in a very nice light. There’s a little something for everybody, particularly for those with a penchant for guitar pop, so give a listen below!

Stream Monster of Needing EP by Half Dream

Early on in 2020, I had expectations that Half Dream would really take Austin by storm with their Monster of Needing EP. I was fortunate enough to get an early taste of the EP, but like so many folks out there, this pandemic derailed releases plans and created a few barriers the band would have to overcome. Luckily, today is the day you can all hear the EP in its entirety, and if you’ll hang out for a second, I’ll break it down track by track for ya!

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Pleased to Meet You: Bergman Beach

Okay, so let’s just put this out there…we’ve actually met the members of Bergman Beach many a time…as the group features members of Templo X and Shivery Shakes (both ATH Record alumnae). But, please don’t let those two bands influence your expectations, as the new project is said to envision “what the Beach Boys would sound like if they were from Nashville.” For me, it kind of recalls some of the latter Conor Oberst records where’s he culling from the rich history of Americana, much like this group does…though they’ve added in a nice backing vocal to give the song a melodic balance we hope you enjoy. Let’s hope we’ve get more from the group going forward!

Duncan Fellows Release the Sadlands LP

I’m a sucker for really great pop songwriting, particularly when its crafted inside Travis County lines, which is the case for Duncan Fellows, who release the Sadlands today. The record is filled with these swelling moments that burst into euphoria, like the soft lead on “Like I Used To.” You also just get these little classic pop rock moments where the vocals stretch for these high notes, only to crash down with joyous guitars like we get on “Swallowing Grains.” But, maybe your bag is that slow burning pop vibe, which you’ll find on “Best I Can,” shimmering its dreamy way right into your heart. All in all, if you just want a record that makes you feel good, spend some time with this LP today.

Sun June Announce Somewhere LP

With the release of “Singing” last month, we all knew Sun June had something cooking; today they officially announce the release of their new LP, Somewhere, handled by Run for Cover and Keeled Scales. For me, I’m not sure what’s more striking at this point…the song or its accompanying video. I love the use of light and shadow in the video, directed by the band’s own Laura and Stephen, but damned if the song doesn’t blow the rest of the musical competitors out of the water. The song, trickles in around forlorn notes and Colwell’s solemn delivery; you’re almost oblivious to the subtle tension building, bursting through near the 2:50 mark to deliver an emphatic sonic euphoria that solidifies the song’s greatness. The LP will be out in February of next year!

Family Mart Share Starlite

Mike Lee is just churning out the dreamy pop hits; month after month we get a dreamy pop tune from his new project Family Mart. This reminds me a lot of some of the later work from Pains of Being Pure at Heart; its sort of peeled away that distortion-heavy guitar sound in favor of a lighter swirling sound. Personally, I love the 1 minute mark when the jangling guitar chord pops in to work in contrast with the tracks main sound, leaving you with the slightest hook to reel in the listener. Plus, some Audrey Scott backing vocals add in a nice thick melody to work with Lee’s voice. Tuesday can’t start until you’ve had your pop!

American Friend Share His Energy Runs Backwards Video

Everyone has been raving about Jana Horn’s new album Optimism (you’ve check it out haven’t you? It’s HERE), but we shouldn’t forget that she began this summer for us by releasing a 7″ with her other project American Friend; the band is comprised of Jana and Adam Jones (of my fave Deep Time), at least for the 7″ recording. Over the weekend they shared a really striking video directed by another ATX local, Shannon Widermeyer, and it seems fitting that we share this track with you as a reminder of the release. One of the things I love about this recording, aside from Horn’s always mesmerizing vocals, are the tones of the guitars; it’s like they’re haunting every lyrical note, heavy with their own sentiment. If you’re digging it, you should grab it HERE.

 

High Tide Drifter Share Happy Trails

I’ll be honest, I don’t know too much about High Tide Drifter, a fairly new act coming out of our hometown of Austin. But, when I heard this song, I really perked up; there’s something so pure in the songwriting approach that I think most folks would find a way to cherish the notes. I keep hearing this wistfulness that’s matched up with a little swagger, delivering that emotional gut punch we all crave. Every time I try to place my finger on the song to pigeonhole or define it, I just can’t find the words; its simply a well-executed pop song that you won’t want to miss out on today.

Alex Maas Announces Solo LP

I feel like many folks listening to the Black Angels all these years will be quite taken aback by Alex Maas‘ solo work, and while I love BA, I think I might even love this better. It has this nostalgic pop sound, the sort that filled every room of my home as a child (thanks Dad!). There’s still this sort of foreboding in his vocals, and perhaps in some of the lyrical content of this particular track, though the music definitely seems uplifting. Every moment here feels like its being painted with these huge sweeping brush strokes, leaving classic pop sensibility on the sonic canvas. Pretty powerful stuff. Luca is out on December 4th via Innovative Leisure.

Being Dead Share Underworld Video

If you live near the sputtering death throes of Austin’s music scene (thanks Adler!) you’ve certainly heard of Being Dead; they’ve been one of the most heralded acts of the last few years due to their incredible live performances and secretly hook-laden songs. In fact, a year or so ago, our ATH Records label helped them press some songs to hot wax for the Fame Money Death by Drive-By EP. Well, because great songs and great ideas never die, the band just recently dropped a video for “Underworld,” and its begging your attention this morning. You get a little pop genius as well as the band’s sense of humor in the midst of these dark times. Enjoy this treat…and maybe grab one of the last few copies HERE. Feeling like I could really go for a burger right about now!

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