Rating: NNNN
More muscular than labelmates the Pains of Being Pure at Heart, Gold-Bears are just as adept at writing sublimely catchy three-minute pop songs. Fuzzy distortion, frantically strummed guitars and melodic bass lines create a sound that’s equal parts dreamy and powerful, appropriate for both solo listening sessions and impromptu dance parties.
While the songs tend to be short bursts of jangle and noise, that doesn’t stop singer Jeremy Underwood from cramming a ton of lyrics into each one. He paints vivid pictures of friendship and the drama of young relationships. Mixing punk rock with cute pop, the Atlanta, Georgia, quartet are a fine addition to Slumberland’s near-flawless roster.
Top track: So Natural
