One of my most recent obessions [probably cause' its colder than a witches tit outside] is the phenomenon of surf rock that is sweeping the nation. If my job actually afforded me paid vacations--or rather, vacations at all.. I wouldn't even be writing this, for I'd already be frolicking in the water on the Cali coast.
I thought I would share some of my favorites from this genre that I think best capture the spirit of summer and all things lo-fi-tastic:
Beach Fossils
Oddly enough, Beach Fossils have probably only been to the beach a handful of times considering they're from Brooklyn--and any beaches around there are sure to send you to the hospital just as fast. Still, theyre twangy simple jams evoke the kind of emotions one gets when enjoying a sunset on Venice Beach.
DOWNLOAD:
Best Coast
This group should go without saying, but for me, I can't say it enough. Headed by Bethany Cosentino and Bobb Bruno, this lo-fi garage-style surf rock is just the thing for lounging. I mean, Best Coast has the words 'Best' and 'Coast' right in the name! And they're from L.A...so ya know, there's that.
DOWNLOAD:
Best Coast - Wish He Was You (Daytrotter Sessions)
DOM
This eclectic brilliant indie lo-fi band from Worcester, Massachusetts--DOM, embodies the spirit of classic surf rock with a bit of an edge. Hey, maybe it's because the only beaches they have are cold as shit.
DOWNLOAD:
Jenny & Johnny
Once a band or musician gets comfortable enough and has a dcecent following, the natural next stop is television appearences. Sometimes, it works the other way around. Jennifer Lewis [Jenny] got her start in TV sitcoms and commercials like Golden Girls, Growing Pains, Baywatch and Twilight Zone. She's was also the lead singer of Rilo Kiley and a successful solo artist. Now she's touring with boyfriend, Johnathan Rice [Johnny..naturally] under the moniker 'Jenny & Johnny'. If you cant hear the blatant sounds of a more talented Sheryl Crow, there may be something wrong with your ears.
DOWNLOAD:
Real Estate
Formed in New Jersey back long ago in 2008, Real Estate received accolades right out the gate. Getting to tour with bands like Girls and Deerhunter have only helped to increase exposure. The guitars are something of a chill, retro lullaby.
DOWNLOAD:
The Raveonettes
Danish duo, Sune Rose Wagner & Sharin Foo recreate those [then very new] exciting sounds that came about in the 50's and 60's with their own band The Raveonettes, and a blend of classic rock riffs. Pretty In Black which came out in 2005 features some cover songs that are nice to listen too no matter if you're a baby-boomer of not.
DOWNLOAD:
The Raveonettes - My Boyfriend's Back (The Angels Cover)
[to be continued]...
Comments