Bellini "Before The Day Is Gone (Temporary Residence)"
Who are Bellini? No, not the towel wearing, fish eating, “6th member” of the Kids In The Hall. However, if you ever wanted to know what Surgar or Helmet would have sounded like with female vocals then Bellini is the band for you. Produced by poker champion Steve Albini, the best sounding snare is up front as singer Giovanna Cacciola Exene (at times) like vocals lead the band as they charge through riff and time signature with the furry and anger that is missed from oh, 95% of the music made today. Crank up and air guitar to “Clementine Peel”, and “Promises” and take out those damn ear plugs-if you ain’t deaf yet, well this will do the trick (and is worth it).
Ty Segall & White Fence "Joy (Drag City)"
If you aren’t already a fan of the pairing of Ty Segall & White Fence, then I don’t know what to tell you… Why do you hate amazing pairings anyway? Do you not like chocolate and peanut butter together? Did you not see Alien Vs. Predator on opening day? Do you say “no thanks” to mimosas? Come on! This is the amazing Ty Segall and the amazing White Fence together. If that doesn’t sound like pure joy to you then… wait. Did you know? The new LP is called Joy (Drag City). Well, that settles it! You’re a fan now! So dig into the skronky throwback rock sounds of “Good Boy.” It’s a he*king good song 12/10.
Ume "Other Nature (Modern Outsider)"
Ume is back! The Texas based-rockers, as led my frontwoman Lauren Larson, have returned with Other Nature (Modern Outsider). These songs were written not because Lauren wanted to, but because she “had to.” Showcasing her at times hauntingly beautiful, and at times Joan Jett-esque power scratch of a voice, with the band sounding a bit like the Pixies if the Pixies were catchier (I know, right?) and also sounding like a modern band cutting out a space for themselves in DIY-esque, indie rock. All the while Lauren making every “top 100 guitarists” list that doesn’t include her name incomplete. Check out the dramatic shifts of “Fire In Your Hands.”
Sean Henry "Fink (Double Double Whammy)"
The record industry worked just like it used to. Sean Henry caught the attention of Double Double Whammy Records (along with countless others) with his demo tape. They signed him. He has recorded a debut studio LP called Fink and here it is (take THAT Soundcloud!). His “soft grunge” sound is on full display here, reminding you of a time when 120 Minutes ruled the airwaves. A little like those early, loose Pavement records mixed with those early, loose Modest Mouse records. Check out the frazzled “The Ants.”