JAM THE TRACKS WHILE YOU READ
"GREAT ADD YOU SAUCY MINX" - BEN
DAIISTAR
GOOD TIME
October 15th, 2023
You will be forgiven for thinking Alex Capistran (guitar/vocals) and company come from some British backwater. No, they’re a stateside band hailing from Austin, TX. They wear their influences proudly, but those artists are not to be found in bluesy jook joints and countryfied two-steppin’ bars. Take a quick listen. It’s obvious and undeniable. Album opener “Star Starter” begins with a muffled bubble of sound before that shuffling drum track throws you back to baggy Madchester beats. It’s Leckie and The Stone Roses and acid house and subtle psych guitar noodling. It’s the Elephant 6 musical collective sans the twee sensibility and lo-fi production. With better grooves. It’s the Apples in Stereo if you fed them a diet of Factory records and free drinks at the Hacienda. It’s the color palette of Ned’s Atomic Dustbin and Blur’s Leisure from ‘91.
When track 2 “LMN BB LMN” comes in with that propulsive motorik chug and MBV guitar lines you know this album is neither a nostalgia project nor an endeavor in mediocrity. It’s going to be an absolute banger. Song after song just moves you along. The shoegazey element is on display but the melodies never get lost in layers of distortion. The drums typically sit high in the mix which keeps the head and body grooving and galloping, most notably in “Speed Jesus”.
When the last track comes on with a paired down, almost arpeggiated synth foundation, coupled with an echoey and atmospheric guitar bit I cocked my head like a Springer Spaniel in surprise. But really, this whole album was a surprise. It was a surprise of just how god damn good a record can be beyond the four singles that were released prior to the full length. I’ve listened to this album multiple times. Each time I have a new favorite track. And each time is always a Good Time. Something we all need more of.
- TRENT RYAN SMITH