Brothertiger - Fundamentals Vol. V

Listening to John Jagos often feels like stepping into a time machine back to the 1980s. It's worth mentioning that he has even released an album featuring covers of Tears for Fears—quite the compliment! Performing under the name Brothertiger, Jagos has just unveiled Volume 5 in his Fundamentals series. As with previous volumes, these tracks originate from his live streams on platforms like Twitch. The result is a collection of fully realized songs, featuring improvised synths that create lush soundscapes reminiscent of artists like Washed Out. This isn’t the first time his work has been featured here, and I hope it won’t be the last.

For your playlist: 'Jordan's Room,' 'Aero Essen'

Cloud Nothings - Final Summer (Pure Noise)

It’s been a decade since Cleveland's indie rock band Cloud Nothings released the iconic Here and Nowhere Else, their third album characterized by frenetic energy. Their latest offering, Final Summer, maintains that high-octane spirit while ensuring that melody is never sacrificed. This album is packed with catchy hooks from the very first track. In 'On Running Through The Campus,' frontman Dylan Baldi poses the question, 'Can you believe how far I have come?' The answer is a resounding yes.

For your playlist: 'Final Summer,' 'The Golden Halo'

Ilithios - Every Bird Ever (Totally Real!)

Brooklyn-based Ilithios tackles generational challenges in their sophomore record, using birds as a metaphor. Ranging from dance floor anthems to expansive, anthemic tracks, Ilithios, along with many contributors from the NYC music scene, has crafted an album that inspires listeners to take on the world. While the name Ilithios translates to "idiot" in Greek, Every Bird Ever clearly demonstrates that the band is anything but foolish.

For your playlist: 'Athens,' 'Old'

Khruangbin - A La Sala (Dead Oceans)

A popular meme suggests that Khruangbin's entire discography is one continuous song, and A La Sala does little to challenge that notion. With their signature slinky grooves and ethereal guitar melodies, this album serves as an ideal backdrop for your next dinner gathering. If it works, why change it?

For your playlist: 'Pon Pon,' 'Three from Two'

Pearl Jam - Dark Matter (Monkey Wrench/Republic)

If you ever want to feel your age, just sit in a break room and watch the Woodstock ‘94 documentary with younger colleagues, who will likely ask what it was like to be alive back then. Ouch! A reminder: Pearl Jam's 'Alive' turns 33 later this year. I consider myself fortunate to have witnessed them live during that era, and I'm thrilled to see them back in top form with Dark Matter. The album features energetic tracks like "React, Respond" alongside more introspective pieces like 'Wreckage,' making it arguably their most cohesive work since Vs.

For your playlist: 'React, Respond,' 'Won't Tell'

The Reds, Pinks, and Purples - Unwishing Well (Slumberland)

Slumberland Records consistently delivers, and Glenn Donaldson proves to be one of their most prolific artists. With Unwishing Well, he continues to weave dreamy, melancholic pop sounds into ten beautifully arranged tracks. While Mark Eitzel may embody the archetype of a tortured artist, Donaldson offers a more subdued perspective. Even when critiquing pop culture in songs like 'Your Worst Song Is Your Greatest Hit,' he manages to sound enchanting.

For your playlist: 'Your Worst Song Is Your Greatest Hit,' 'Nothing Between the Lines At All'

Maggie Rogers - Don't Forget Me (Debay Sounds)

Maggie Rogers first captured attention years ago with a viral video featuring Pharrell Williams reacting to her demo of 'Alaska.' Fast forward eight years, and she returns with Don't Forget Me, her third studio album, following 2022's Surrender. For those who thought her previous work was a once-in-a-lifetime event, I’m happy to report that she’s done it again. This time, Rogers presents a more focused vision, knowing exactly what she wants and how to achieve it.

Written and recorded in just a few days, the album showcases Rogers's exceptional voice alongside well-crafted music that never feels weighed down. The lead single 'So Sick of Dreaming' fits perfectly in a cozy coffee shop or blasting in your car. As Pharrell famously said after her performance, 'I have no notes.' I feel the same way—this record is strong from start to finish and is likely to land a spot on my year-end best-of list.

For your playlist: 'So Sick of Dreaming,' 'The Kill'

Laetitia Sadier - Rooting For Love (Drag City)

This album represents the intricate, elaborate style you expect from Sadier. Though it's not a Stereolab record, it certainly evokes that spirit in the best possible way. The arrangements are perfectly crafted, with hooks and transitions that feel just right. While the lyrics might explore deeper themes, the music remains light and airy.

For your playlist: 'Une Autre Attente,' 'Don't Forget You're Mine'

Soft Kill - Escape Forever (Rough Trade)

My introduction to Soft Kill was serendipitous. While driving home from work, I stumbled upon their song 'My Section' on WSUM, prompting me to pull over to find out more about them. Escape Forever is a dynamic blend of dark wave and post-punk, featuring powerful guitar riffs and captivating synths throughout. The album fluctuates between explosive energy and calmer moments, with a few samples and voice clips that feel unnecessary but don’t detract from the overall experience. Even in a chaotic world, there's still room to dance—so grab your eyeliner and prepare to hit the dance floor.

For your playlist: 'I Wish You'd Go,' 'My Section'

As always, I welcome your thoughts on these records! Did I hit the mark, or did I miss it entirely?

Thank you for joining me,

Kevin

Curious to discover releases like these first? Join the On Repeat Records community, recently hailed as 'the nicest place on the internet!'