Last Week’s Jams (8.18 – 8.22)

We have to own up to riding the struggle bus last week; I’ve been back at school, but the kids were finally in my classroom, so didn’t quite get to as much of the jams as I normally would. But, even as I adapted a new routine, found some real joy in the week’s music, though I know there was tons more out there. We got some solid Austin love with fresh Jane Leo and Rad Gnar, encompassing both sides of the Austin area scene. RayRay crushed it with a premiere for new Living Hour track, so be sure to swing by that jam. Fans of my indiepop coverage will want to be be sure you get your ears on new Tullycraft, Love Burns and Massage, all worthy of some extra listens. Sneak in and enjoy a little dose of new jams. And B.gray threw out some news on the ACL Night Shows, if that’s of interest, dig into the site!

A Couple of New Ditties from Tullycraft

Seattle outfit Tullycraft are about to release their delightful new LP, brimming with joy and clever wordplay you might find on a Dan Treacy penned track. They’ve just dropped a couple of new tracks to support Shoot the Point, and “Love on the Left Bank” displays the band’s ability to switch back and forth between vocalists, though never shying away from nuanced hooks in the background…just think of a purely pop version of the Comet gain. “Tarrytown” turns these great guitar lines into masterful pop seduction, and those vocal tones pull from the coolest corners of indiepop, particularly with their little rise within syllable switches. Shoot the Point is shaping up quite nicely; it’ll be out this Friday via HHBTM.

HHBTM Announces Two New Releases: Tullycraft and Bunnygrunt

Our friends at the great HHBTM label have been busy setting up their own proper record shop, but like all great things, their finishing this year with focus back on the label side of things. They sent us a note about two great new releases, one that’s brand spanking new, Tullycraft; the other, Bunnygrunt, getting the 30 year Reissue treatment for Action Pants. Below, you’ll be treated to the joyous pop sounds of Tullycraft‘s new single; they take on this infectious sound that feels like it’s somewhere between Heavenly and Beulah, catchy and bundles of fun (I particularly love the horn blasts that kick on here). Shoot the Point will be out on August 22nd. You can also hear a new to everyone Bunnygrunt track that was never on the Action Pants LP back in 1995, due to some lineup and contract issues. But, they’ve redone it, and dammit if you’re not going to wish you this had been included in the OG version. This reissue is super-limited and is being split with Silly Moo Records.

Brand New Tullycraft

If Tullycraft isn’t on your radar, and you consider yourself a pop fan, please go back and revisit the band’s catalog (I’m particularly fond of Disenchanted Hearts Unite). Now, more to the point is the charming new single they just dropped to celebrate their forthcoming album, The Railway Prince Hotel. It comes with a wonderful animated video, matching the playful mood of the track itself. Sean offers up the majority of the vocals, but don’t worry, as the sound wouldn’t be complete without Jenny in there to make sure Sean doesn’t get too much of the pop sensibility credit. Couldn’t think of a better way to wrap up a week than with this here tune; look for the new LP in February via HHBTM.

Stream New Sour EP from Sushi Backpack

Two things this Sour EPfrom Sushi Backpack had going for it from the get-go: it’s being released by February Records; it references Tullycraft. On that alone, I feel like it’s worthy of a post over here, but three runs through the EP, and I’ve found it lives up to every bit of my expectations. “Bucky” is a charming number waiting for you at the near the end, employing playful male/female dueling vocals. The jangling opening of “Apokalypse” immediately sets you on your way for a listen that involves a lot of smiling. A lot of great releases today, so here’s an extra one that might not be on your radar as of yet.

Go Back in Time with Crayon

brickRemember that one town that birthed Beat Happening? Well, that same town also had something heavier working simultaneously, though possibly not as prolific in the long run.  Crayon kicked out these happy songs with this dangerous edge to them.  Think about jamming to the Violent Femmes if they were fronted by one of your favorite gritty punk rock outfits.  Sadly, the band disbanded in the early 90s, spawning the creation of Tullycraft (a delightful act in their own right), but you’ll be able to get your hands on some a pristine vinyl copy of the group’s Brick Factory, courtesy of the really rad people at HHBTM Records.

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Welcome Back Tullycraft

If you follow these pages you know I have a personal penchant for bubbling pop songs with powerful hooks, so I’m glad that Tullycraft is coming back after calling it quits several years ago.   There’s a quickened pace to this track, and there’s not a moment that doesn’t beg to be stuck in your head.  Whether it’s the fast vocal delivery, or the gang joining in to provide backing vocals, the tune is full of exuberant energy.  You’ll notice from the stream that the tune is coming to you via Fortuna Pop, who should be putting out the effort from the band real soon!

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