These albums are brilliant statements, and they are all at a “name-your-price” download. I would encourage you to support these artists, as they deliver great pop!
The 143 “Love in the Time of Robots & Aliens”
The 143 is a collective of musical artists from Brooklyn; N.A. Smolenski, Corey Newell, and lead singer Chelsea, assisted by strings (Martin Kutnar, Matej Mihaljević) and drums (Glenn Welman, Bruno Dante).
Love the positive vibes on the opener “Emily,” the jangle and harmonies lift it up. Chelsea’s lead vocals are a standout on the mid-tempos tunes “Ivy Grows” and “Wishing Well.” Talent like this deserves more exposure and with 13 tracks, it’s loaded without filler. Highly Recommended.
Any Version Of Me “Summer After All”
French artist known as Any Version Of Me compiled a collection of past singles and some new ones into this new album. He makes sure to tell us on Bandcamp it’s “For Beach Boys fans only…” He isn’t kidding, as this borrows heavily from the Pet Sounds era. So while it is entirely derivative, it’s also an enjoyable listen. Highlights include “Away,” “Forever,” and “Going Back.”
The Happy Somethings “A Gathering of All Sorts”
An English band very much like The Free Design mixed with Velocity Girl; a kinda folk-twee pop. This collection gathers several singles over the years, and the songs are short and sweet. I appreciate the quirky “No Bother” and “I Wish You Could Sing Like Tracey Thorn.” The charm of this band is evident with the live “Sweet Little Sad Song.” Check it out!
