Julius C “Don’t Want Anybody” EP
A couple of kids from NYU met up in 2003 and kept playing until they formed this tight unit. Fast-paced and fun, the opening title track is as catchy as hell and demands repeat spins. “My Broken Heart” is a funky throwback that is shadowed by a fuzzy bass line and a solid disco orchestral touches. Plenty of energy on “OK, OK” and the marching piano jam of “You & Me.” Overall these are bright, shiny pop songs with hooks-a-plenty. One of the hottest EPs this year, so when is that full release guys? Check out the video here!
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Manatee “s/t”
This band marries the Velvets, The Band and a touch of Codeine to form a indie/slowcore hybrid. The guitars certainly prod along at a weary pace on “Distance To Mars” that seem better suited to Neil Young, and the harmonies feel dry and out of place. Ironically a highlight here is called “Scapegoat,” with it’s slow jam and vocals matching the solid composition, it’s the most compelling track. The pace picks up slightly on “The Unsuccessful Rapist” with some strong drum work by Russ Thompson. The guitars slow building riffs also work well on “Fluorescent Eyes” but the biggest issue here is that the vocals are indistinct and the entire tone of the album is a downer. I hope they cheer up enough for a sophomore release.
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