Electro-pop up-and-comers STRFKR are set to shock the indie scene with their newest release Reptilians. Bright choppy samples similar to Passion Pit and the catchiness of Phoenix or Paper Route, this four-piece from Portland, Oregon writes insane hook after insane hook.
Their third full length effort on Polyvinyl charms from the get-go with a The Shins-esque laid-back groove “Born,” followed closely by the rare quality track “Julius.” I may be so bold as to say that this the catchiest tune I’ve heard since MGMT’s “Kids” was released in 2005. Similar in essence , “Julius” is near perfect from every instrumental standpoint, vocals especially. Throughout the album it’s safe to point out that front man Joshua Hodges keeps the vox very simple, but with Ray-Bans and all… he does it like a true hipster, and somehow it works. However, in this track the simplicity of Hodges vocals aren’t just acceptable – they’re pure magic when combined with the main sample. Other standout tracks include the fast-paced “Mystery Cloud” and “The White of Noon,” which blends hip-hop beats with a few interesting synth parts.
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Overall, Reptilians is electric in every sense of the word, and it would be a crime not to give it a listen. Honestly, there’s not a terrible song on this whole album, so a random 30-second preview on iTunes will do you no wrong. If you need a live performance to win you over perchance, STRFKR recently kicked off a US tour at SXSW and should hit a bunch of major cities in the coming months, so definitely give it a look. In the meantime, grab a copy of Reptilians and be wowed.
(Polyvinyl Records, 206 N. Randolph St., Suite M100, Champaign, IL 61820)