I remember during the beginning of last year, there were a few anticipated albums up for release like Arcade Fire, Bloc Party, Feist, etc. 2008 doesn’t seem so interesting for me other than The Cure and a rumored album by The Vines. I haven’t really been up to date with any reviews, but I do have some new releases that I’ve given a listen to. I guess this is my review post in which I talk about them.

Foals – Antidotes
[download] Red Sock Pugie

When my brother recommended this band to me he described Foals as Los Campesinos! meets Bloc Party. He basically meant that the fun chants and seriousness is included in Foals’ debut album, Antidotes. This album shows boldness and is a contender for being one of the best releases of the year, I’m sure. Though not on heavy rotation at the moment, but will be soon enough, I’m sure, Foals have done a good job at presenting themselves as a promising group. A

Does It Offend You, Yeah? – Let’s Make Out
[download] Let’s Make Out (Original Edit)

This was my first listen of Does It Offend You, Yeah? and I have to admit, though Let’s Make Out was somewhat repetitive, which it ought to be, I was content with this EP. Their debut, You Have No Idea What You’re Getting Yourself Into has already leaked, and I intend to pen my opinion on it once I listen to it thoroughly, but I think I kind of know what to expect after hearing this funky, dance-tempting single. B+


Cut Copy – Lights & Music EP
[download] Lights & Music (Radio Edit)

This EP by Cut Copy was similar to Does It Offend You, Yeah?’s single, not for its substance, but for what it contains: a radio edit and remixes done by other electronica acts. “Time Stands Still” found on CC’s Bright Like Neon Love will certainly be my favorite song by the band, but the songs found on Lights & Music is definitely charming, and does justice to a person’s ears. B


The Bird and the Bee – One Too Many Hearts EP
[download (m4a)] Come As You Are

I became interested in The Bird and the Bee when I learned that Greg Kurstin, one of the two members of the group worked with Beck and Lily Allen. On the band’s website, they describe One Too Many Hearts as “a new EP of love songs.” This EP is certainly witty and has a certain subtle charm that carries irreplaceable aesthetic beauty. A+

This is a great read. People really really need to take a look at this.
 

I suppose that if you compared Arcade Fire and how Los Campesinos! look like when they're wearing more formal attire, one could say they look alike. After all, Gareth Campesinos! (ha ha) hair's sort of like the way Win Butler's used to be. And then there's Harriet Campesinos! contributing to the band with her violin the same way Sarah Neufeld does for Arcade Fire.

Anyhow, the band's Myspace has the new single, "The International Tweexcore Underground," and it's video. This time, Los Campesinos!' music video is not animated, but has the band performing themselves. The single will be available for purchase on October 22 under Witchita.