Philadelphia Weekly

MUSIC

On the Record: Junior Boys, Bon Iver, Friendly Fires & More

By Bill Chenevert

Add Comment | Comments: 0 | Posted Jun. 15, 2011

Friendly Fires

Pala

(XL Recordings)

Sounds Like: Delightful summer record of disco-fueled dance pop from the British trio whose sophomore does not disappoint with a super-listenable set of party tunes.

Free Association: You can push play and easily dance (tipsy) for 40 minutes straight.

For Fans Of: Hot Chip x New Order, !!!, LCD, the Rapture, pool parties, neon.

Dawes

Nothing Is Wrong

(ATO)

Sounds Like: The sophomore LP from California roots rockers is a solid batch of sun-kissed thoughtful ditties with bits of country, folk and retro psychedelics mixed in.

Free Association: Once upon a time, Kings of Leon were this earnest and charming.

For Fans Of: The Avett Brothers, Mumford & Sons x Neil Young, good writing, L.A.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr.

It’s A Corporate World

(Warner Brothers)

Sounds Like: Charmingly well-written debut from a Detroit duo making layered, airy and infectious electro folk full of synth pop swirls, simplified percussion and twee lyrics.

Free Association: Sensitive electro pop and car racing were meant to be together.

For Fans Of: Sun Airway + Ruby Suns, Postal Service x Brian Wilson, indie irony.

The Most Serene Republic