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Japancakes - Giving Machines (Darla)
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With three years since their last record Japancakes return with their unique brand of reflective soundscapes that center around steel guitar, strings, and keys. They are consistent as ever lulling you into a warm drone cocoon. Maybe there are a few more minor chords on this one bringing a more pensive feel to this record but ultimately "Giving Machines" is the pat on the back you need and the gentle reminder that tomorrow will be alright. If only they could play in a corner of my bedroom every night as I fall asleep.

My only complaint is "The Enabler" is by far my favorite song and by far too short! I need an extended version please. Thanks!

Look out for yet another release in November which is Japancakes covering My Bloody Valentine's Loveless in its entirety. Man, that record is getting name checked right and left lately.
- Edmund LeStrange

(For fans of Beirut, Elliot Smith, Ugly Cassanova, Hawk and a Hacksaw, Will Oldham, and shanties)
- Francis Drake

A Place To Bury Strangers - Self Titled (Killer Pimp)
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Professional pedal crafter Oliver Ackermann and company have released a violent quasi industrial-drone-shoegaze bomb upon the world. This self-titled release is similar to the grinding trebly buzz of Japanese counterparts Xinlisupreme. Both of who have taken a key from early Jesus and Mary Chain as far as their wall of feedback approach. A Place To Bury Strangers differs in that they have the ability to shift gears within their wall of sound rather than simply escalating the loudness and abrasion. That's not to say this record isn't loud. Its as loud as any Guitar Wolf record or MVB live show. In the shifts we hear a proclivity for mid-80s processed bass lines and drowned out dreamy vocals. At one point it sounds like The Cure fell into a well with Einsturzende Neubauten. Ackermann's vocals temper the madness throughout the record and supply an aural anchor in a sea of distortions. Tons of phasing, feedback, delay, and total sonic annihilation but amazingly some hooks and melody lie within the density. I I like it lots.
- Edmund LeStrange

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