Tension Pets Expresso Plaza CD
In just a few tracks, this Chicago group is able to explore a lot of exciting territory. From bad-vibe carnival punk to more earnest (if unhinged) punk-inflected indie, this group is clearly confident while at play. Talk about adventures in sound and richness of ideas, and yet while some bands can stretch themselves too thin, this band seems uncannily aware of their strengths (which are many). This is squiggly, artsy weirdo music, but heavy thanks to a syrupy synth underlying it all. The vocals are howling and manic, but stuck to the rhythm in a way that all but demands you shout along. One of the most singular, fun, and powerful releases of the year.