This six-piece from Charleston, South Carolina does a mighty fine job of channeling the Beach Boys (with a hint of the Ruby Suns mixed in).  They have a great “vintage California sound” that always seems to brighten up my day.

♩The Explorers Club – Run Run Run [from Grand Hotel]
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It’s been three years since Edward Droste and company released the critically acclaimed and fan friendly Veckatimest.  This year the band released Shields, their fourth album.  This album didn’t just meet my expectations, it exceeded them.  “Half Gate” is easily one of my favorite Grizzly Bear tracks.  Probably second favorite (after “Two Weeks”).

♩Grizzly Bear – Half Gate [from Shields]

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The seventh solo album from one of the best guitarists in the biz today (and  the “him” in She & Him)

♩M. Ward – Primitive Girl [from A Wasteland Companion]

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Saint Motel are a Los Angeles four piece with a very fun and dynamic indie pop sound.  This year’s Voyeur is their debut full-length.

♩Saint Motel – 1997 [from Voyeur]
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Australian rockers Tame Impala released their second full length this year.  This record was a surprise favorite of mine.  I’m not a huge fan of classic rock and even less so of the classic rock inspired sounds being produced today.  With that said, these guys have definitely lived up to the hype and I’m really happy I took a chance on them at Outside Lands this year.

♩Tame Impala – Why Won’t They Talk To Me? [from Lonerism]
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