New releases in indie music include Sharp Pins and Oneohtrix Point Never – BrooklynVegan

This week in Indie Basement brings a selection of new records and rave-worthy movie soundtracks. The featured artists include Sharp Pins (also known as Kai Slater from Lifeguard), Oneohtrix Point Never, pôt-pot from Portugal, and Chicago’s own Glyders. Additionally, there are reviews of new releases from De La Soul, Glitterer, and others. Notable news includes My Bloody Valentine’s return to the stage after seven years, the deluxe reissue of Velocity Girl’s album ¡Simpatico!, Crooked Fingers’ comeback, and Soulwax’s impressive mix centered around NYC.

Starting off is Sharp Pins with their album “Balloon Balloon Balloon,” where Kai Slater showcases his talent in making catchy, lo-fi pop reminiscent of the ’60s. Drawing comparisons to Guided by Voices, Slater impresses with his ability to create infectious melodies while evoking a sense of nostalgia without directly imitating his influences. The album is filled with jangly guitars, harmonious choruses, and clever production elements that set it apart from a typical throwback record.

Oneohtrix Point Never presents “Tranquilizer,” inspired by the disappearance and reappearance of a library of ’90s and ’00s commercial samples and a trip to the dentist. Daniel Lopatin’s ability to manipulate vintage sounds into a coherent yet dreamy musical experience makes this album one of his most engaging works in recent times. The tracklist, featuring songs like “Rodi Glide” and “Lifeworld,” showcases a blend of old and new, creating a mesmerizing sonic journey.

pôt-pot, an Irish band now based in Lisbon, delivers “Warsaw 480km,” blending motorik rhythms with unexpected shifts in style, reminiscent of Neu! and the Velvet Underground. Their ability to incorporate funk, pop, and garage punk elements into their sound adds layers of intrigue to the album. pôt-pot’s primary influence seems to stem from James Brown and early soul and funk music, evident in their deep grooves and hypnotic vocals that keep listeners engaged throughout the record.

Glyders from Chicago, led by Joshua Condon and Eliza Weber, make a mark with their Drag City debut album, “Forever.” Finding their groove with drummer Joe Seger, the band presents a cohesive blend of skill, melodicism, and rock sensibilities. Their sound is likened to artists like Ty Segall and Bill Callahan, with a touch of glam and rural charm. Drawing parallels to Ripley Johnson of Wooden Shjips, the band’s musical direction seems to align with the psych-rock scene at Touch and Go.

In conclusion, this week’s Indie Basement offerings highlight the diversity and talent within the indie music scene, showcasing artists who continue to push boundaries and create compelling music. From the lo-fi charm of Sharp Pins to the dreamy landscapes of Oneohtrix Point Never, each release brings something unique to the table, making it a rewarding journey for listeners seeking fresh sounds and innovative approaches to music.