Passion Pit: Manners

Artist: Passion Pit
Album: Manners
Date Released: May 19, 2009
Genre: indie-electronic, indie-pop
Rating: 7.4

Review: Following on the heels of the Chunk of Change EP, Manners is the highly anticipated debut album from Massachusetts outfit Passion Pit. For those looking for a continuation of their brilliant synth-infused pop this album will not disappoint. Manners features two highlights in particular, namely the opening track, "Make Light" and their latest single "The Reeling".

Of possible concern, however, is the realization that the album's strongest track, "Sleepyhead," is also featured on the EP; does this suggest that we’ve already seen the best from Michael Angelakos and company?

But with a strong live show and a knack for catchy riffs who am I to argue. Indeed, the band is steadily gathering support in America and in Europe. And anyone who knows their indie-electronic will be dancing along to Manners this summer.

Reviewed by Alex Diffley

Au Revoir Simone: Still Night, Still Light

Artist: Au Revoir Simone
Album: Still Night, Still Light
Date Released: May 19, 2009
Genre: indie-pop, indie-electronic, dream pop
Rating: 7.4

Review: Dream pop trio Au Revoir Simone's third studio album may not be a radical departure from their previous work, but it's the finest expression of their talents to date. Still Night, Still Light is sad, introspective and down-tempo. If the lyrics don't grab you, the songs will; the tracks are finely crafted, minimalistic and laden with vintage, lo-fi electronic sounds.