4 stars (out of 5)
Auckland three-piece Coach makes dreamy, dark, spacious pop music of the kind that turns thoughts inward.
First single I Have Two Shadows has an autumnal feel, chilly but very pretty to wander through. "Pick me, don't leave me/I can't handle being let down," sings Abraham Kunin over a bed of swooping upright bass and evocative Johnny Marr-style guitar chords, revealing much about this album's fragile character. But among these moments of bluesy reflection are some sweet vocal harmonies and several sprawling sections of heavier rock that balance out an impressive debut effort.
Single download: I Have Two Shadows
For those who like: Slint, The Smiths, Beach House
- Jeff Harford
5 stars (out of 5)
On the evidence of the debut album by this outfit from Denver, Colorado, the current roots-folk revival (buoyed by a diverse range of acts, from Paolo Nutini to the Felice Brothers) is in good hands.
Nodding to tradition is all well and good, but forward momentum is also required.
And this where is The Lumineers revel. Led by former New Jersey songsmith Wesley Schultz, whose lyrical grasp reflects past trials as well as youthful optimism, they clap hands, stomp feet, bang drums and holler to melodies that beg to be repeated, time and again. Catchy, clever and honest.
Single download: Ho Hey
For those who like: Mumford & Sons, Violent Femmes
- Shane Gilchrist
3 stars (out of 5)
The sophomore effort from this Boston-based electro-pop group might initially seem to be hoisted high into the stratosphere courtesy of its burbling synths and energetic rhythmic loops but, among the falsettos and occasional chipmunk (read auto-tuned) vocal track, there are more than a few grey clouds, too. Not surprising really, given frontman Michael Angelakos has battled mental illness all his life. The biggest surprise here is the depth of the words as Angelakos moves from portraying an immigrant's struggle amid the financial crisis (Take A Walk) to odes to his rock-steady girlfriend (On My Way).
Single download: I'll Be Alright
For those who like: New Order meets Scissor Sisters
-Shane Gilchrist
