The Minders Release Psychedelic Backdrop

I wonder how one of the bands that sprang out of the early Elephant 6 era could completely miss my radar when they dropped a new release! I aim to rectify that by sharing the Minders newest release in streaming form below. As the title alludes, there’s tons of psychedelic nods throughout, though I’ll be frank, as the album feels a lot sunnier and poppy than you might be led to believe. For example, listen to “Let’s Go Driving!,” which feels like a reimagined Dead tune, spun with sunshine and hooks. Of course, there’s also the more sullen vibes you get on “Astoria,” though I’m a sucker for the buoyant hooks of “Magic Anorak.” If you’re looking for classic indie pop sounds, then dive into Psychedelic Backdrop.

Circulatory System Reissue S/T LP and Cover Led Zeppelin

It’s been really great seeing the Elephant Six Recording Company back in the mix these last few years, as they’ve reached back in their catalog for some great reissues, like that Gerbils LP I hyped last year. Right now, they’re focused on the reissue of the self-titled debut of Circulatory System, a band helmed by Will Cullen Hart of Olivia Tremor Control (with some contributions from Jeff Magnum). That album alone is reason to celebrate, and a key fabric in the E6 quilt of indie rock, but if you act now, you can get a bonus 12″ with this super rare Led Zeppelin cover included, with the flip-side offering a Can cover. I love how Circulatory System plays up some of those pop notes in the track one might overlook if you’re just casually listening to the original, not to mention how they fuzz out the edges and let you get lost in a world that feels entirely of their own creation.

Marshmallow Coast Release Sinz of My Father

Of all the groups with Elephant Six lineage, perhaps none are as willing to participate in sonic exploration as Marshmallow Coast. Immediately, Andy Gonzales throws you into new wave nostalgia; pulsing synth work and robotic autotune. Guitars soon cut through to join in on the fun, all the while you still get that insatiable pulse that serves as the song’s heart. But, if you listen carefully, there’s definitely these nice little pop flourishes, particularly in the soft melodic vocals that sit in the distance near the tune’s latter half. If you’re willing to get out of your cool kid comfort zone, you’re really going to enjoy the group’s new LP, Memory Girl; it drops on November 9th via HHBTM.