Fang Island

Review: Fang Island’s Major

Fang Island: MajorFang Island: Major (Sargent House, 7/24/12)

“Seek it Out”

Fang Island: “Seek it Out”

Anthemic rock quintet Fang Island described its self-titled debut as “the sound of everyone high-fiving everyone” — a statement that’s both accurate and destined to lead profiles for the duration on the band’s existence. Its sophomore effort, Major, builds on the theme. The release features more singing than the first album, which relied heavily on riffs, riffs, and more riffs. But the DNA here is similar: free and fun, with enough hooks to hang the audience’s denim jackets.

Marriages

Review: Marriages’ Kitsuné

Marriages: KitsunéMarriages: Kitsuné (Sargent House)

“Ride in My Place”

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Though their union is new, the members of Marriages are veterans of post-rock experimentation, and their self-titled debut challenges the very notion of the sub-genre.

Fang Island

Video: Fang Island’s Major teaser

This just in: high-fivin’ five-piece Fang Island is returning on July 24 with Major, a sophomore album that promises more infectious riffs and three-part harmonies. Here’s a 30-second taste of “Kindergarten,” the album’s piano-based intro, which seems to be a sign of greater hooks to come. Look for the album this summer from Sargent House.

50 Unheralded Albums from 2011

50 Unheralded Albums from 2011

In just one more trip around the sun, another swarm of immensely talented but under-recognized musicians has harnessed its collective talents and discharged its creations into the void. This list is but one fraction of those dedicated individuals who caught our ears with some serious jams.