Rod 'N' Reel

VINYL FORMAT. Here we have two girls and a guy strumming away in a pink indie-pop style, but the results aren't necessarily twee, but rather a velvet hammer. The romance of their brand of music is thankfully outstripped by some merited musicianship, all the cooing, girly elements sullied by some real-life issue lyrics and the occasional potty mouth. This is how these kids work it out - hearts bare and spirits smiling to keep up the appearance. I'm more into the lovely jolt and second-half dynamics of A-side "Rod 'N' Reel," especially the way the girls sing the words "Amanda Avenue," but both songs will work. Pink vinyl in a nice pro-printed glued sleeve. -dustedmagazine.com