Hedgehog - Honeyed and Killed [2011, Modern Sky]

Beijing indie poppers, Hedgehog (刺猬) are back with their 4th full length.

The album sounds different from what they have done in the past but sounds equally good. Definitely worth the download.

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Human Television - Look At Who You Are Talking To

A quick glance at Human Televisions press photos might give you the idea that these Florida transplants are here to provide a dose of the unpretentious, substance-over-style rock music thats been missing for a few years now, or at least has been overshadowed by fashion-conscious revivalists of once forgotten genres. The band forgoes tight-fitting suits and asymmetrical haircuts in favor of a more laid back look: ragged jeans, hooded sweatshirts, and genuinely as opposed to stylishly messed up hair. Its a look that says, I know whats really important, and as some will recognize, its just as easily linked to early-90s American indie rock as all those suits and synths are to 80s New Wave. That link is even more evident once you spend some time with their debut full-length, Look At Who You’re Talking To.

The most immediately striking component of Human Televisions sound is the guitar. Its perpetually jangly and deliciously upbeat, calling to mind all those underrated Teen Beat and Sarah Records bands who stood at the forefront of what some considered a Golden Age for our lovably nerdy counterculture. The production style is understated and really, barely noticeable; everything’s crisp and relatively clear, but refreshingly free of any sterilizing sheen. The subject matter covered by frontman Billy Downing boredom, failed relationships, etc.


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Passion Pit - Manners [2009]

The Boston, MA-based Passion Pit began as a one-man project of singer and songwriter Michael Angelakos to produce a Valentine's Day gift for his girlfriend. The gift, an EP entitled Chunk of Change, soon wound up in the hands of friends and acquaintances, who were enthralled with the work. Eventually, Passion Pit became not only a vehicle for the romantic expressions of Angelakos heart but a full-fledged band — at least for live gigs — and opened for a number of well-known artists including Death Cab for Cutie. This momentum led to label interest, and in 2008 the Frenchkiss label picked up Chunk of Change for re-release, even going so far as to tack on two bonus tracks. A full-length from Passion Pit was in the planning stages and a 2009 release date was said to be in the cards. - AMG






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