Note: They self-released this album last year. The buzz has led to its official release last week on XL.
Sound: Many Pixies comparisons have been made, and they’re completely founded. Take a listen to the Black Francis-esque creepy croons and fiendish squeals, along with the mixing of hectic punk rock with Southwestern-flavored acoustic guitar and giddy-up percussion. But they also use the standard guitar, bass and drums to create intricate layers of sound and mellower, more understated songs.
Heavy Rotation track: “Insistor”
Medium Rotation tracks: “Cowbell“; “In Houston”
Recommended: The Loon can boast a lot of ambition, tight musicianship and exciting moments, but it can’t claim to have many great songs. And, its best tracks almost borrow too much from the Pixies. If they can pen a few more hits and carve out a little more of an identity, they’ve got a lot of promise for the future.
Grade: B