For 2011, I am psyched. In January alone, there are new full-length efforts from the Smith Westerns, James Ferraro and Ducktails, all of which, having heard, I can say are off the chain. However, I am not here to go on about all these old bands. I’m here to chat about my tips for this New Year.
First off are FANZINE. A band that have been tearing up support slots across the capital since the summer and are set to release their debut single in the next few months. Their sound is fresh yet brilliantly reminiscent of bands like the Pixies and Superchunk. They know how to create pop songs and they know how to do it well.
My second tip of 2011 are THE SHUTES who write well-crafted songs with intricate instrumentation and arrangement. I am very excited to hear what they present on their debut release, which is due very soon.
Next up are WEIRD DREAMS, a garage-pop trio who really kick it live. They play hard and fast, with bursts of pop greatness. Hooks that give you the shakes and riffs that make you rattle.
My penultimate hot tip for the year are a band that have been going for a while now, but have just been picked up by the uber cool Dead Oceans label for their debut LP. They are of course Denver band; GAUNTLET HAIR. The band’s fascinating sound has had me picking up all previous singles over the past year, which has been included on labels such as Mexican Summer and Forest Family Records.
Last but by no means least are one of my favourite new bands and the brainchild of Parker Sprout. They are VELVET DAVENPORT. Keeping the psychedelic lo-fi candle alive with the dazzling debut album ‘Happy Ending’, I am very excited to hear what he produces on his next single due for release over the coming months. Having collaborated with the likes of Ariel Pink, it is only a matter of time before he reaches the worldwide recognition that the latter has enjoyed.
That is it for my tips for 2011. Enjoy the bands, enjoy the year and look out for some super-limited records being released over the next year under the STROLL ON name.
