Half Dream Share New Single, Roses

Since releasing their Monster of Needing EP back in early pandemic days, Austin’s Half Dream have consistently been act to keep an eye (or ear rather?) on. Well, we’re in luck as today, we get a new single, with the promise that a debut LP is in the works for next year. And, as much as I loved the broad bedroom pop of their EP, their latest works really show how much Paige Berry has grown as a songwriter. This tune has these little guitar notes that hint at twang, but feel like little musical candles flickering behind Berry’s voice. Suddenly, the guitars take off, drums pick up speed and the whole group begins to flex their musical muscle, overlapping a guitar note here and there. Back and forth the song goes, introspective or galloping, all the while, the band just seem to be taunting us with how accomplished they’ve become. Enjoy this jam, and we look forward to hearing more from the group next year.

Show Pics: Tres Oui Release Party

Another week, another record released by Austin Town Hall Records.

The most recent excuse to get together with friends is the EP from Tres Oui. Singles Going Nowhere is five tracks perfectly crafted pop chock full of ringing guitar and driving backlines. It is a compact example of the concise EP as opposed to five goods songs with filler content. Oh, sure, they have new songs already, so be ready for that when you see them in your neighborhood. Did I mention this was a tour kickoff, too?

Hit the road, nerds.

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Tonight’s Show: Shivery Shakes/Roses/She Sir @ Cheer Up Charlies

Shivery ShakesIn a week of great goings-on, you should be thrilled that brilliant pop music exists so abundantly in town. One of our favorites, Shivery Shakes, are about to hit the road and spread their gospel of surfy pop all over the States (the East Coast at least). So tonight, join them in celebration as they play one last local gig, try out some new tunes and melt your hearts. Plus, perennial ATH favorites She Sir will be opening, as well as the hot pop band in town, Roses (my old lady can’t stop talking about them).

Also…there’s a great pre-pop show bill featuring some really talented ladies (Aisha Burns, Molly Burch) going on at Cheer Ups earlier in the evening, so make it a night of great music and show up!

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Show Preview: Roses @ Barracuda – TONIGHT

Shivery Shakes

It’s Thursday night ya’ll…and that means, at least this time of year, time for you to get out and see a really great local show. Now, admittedly, two of the ATH Records bands, Rose Selavy and Shivery Shakes, are playing, but I’m not just pulling the homer card here. I really really enjoyed the Roses set on NYE this year. At times they had this indiepop feel, other times I felt a Kurt Vile vibe, both which I dig. Also, Typical Girls are making the drive in to bring their dreamy pop tracks to the stage as well. It sounds like a perfect night for all you pop fans; Doors are at 9 PM.

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Another Listen to New Cult of Youth

cultThe last track I heard from Cult of Youth saw the band exploring some new territory, but their latest single has them revisiting their own hallowed ground.  This song opens with a strummed guitar ringing, as if they’re creating this huge pop sphere that’s waiting to explode. However, Sean Ragon’s darkened vocal touch takes away from that world, offering a more balance approach.  For me, I’m stuck on the lyrics and the emotional appeal of the musical construction, so I’ll be picking up the band’s new effort, Final Days, when its released by Sacred Bones on November 11th.

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