From Russia With Love

In recent days, there has been quite a bit of Russian love in our community, such as Drew writing about Pinkshinyultrablast and the Swede covering Gnoomes. Seems like a good time to get in on the веселье. I first heard Palms on Fire last year when they received a coveted invite to NYC Popfest. Unfortunately, the Izhevsk band had visa issues and didn't make the festival. In the meantime, however, I heard the 'Cars' EP, via Dufflecoat Records, and really took to their airy pop. All smiles from those four songs, and I made a mental note to keep an eye on the trio.

I'm glad I did because Palms on Fire just released their first album. Shelflife Records presents 'Where Are The Grey Clouds Going?' The band has made quite a leap since that 2014 EP. Lots more jangle, too. Where you may have been reminded of Pipas before, now they sound a lot like "it" band Alvvays. Certainly nothing wrong with that. You'll notice "Cars" is on the tracklist. It's a rerecording. So, if you own that EP, you're going to want this one too. Shelflife has generously offered the single "Sword & Shield"/"Perfumed Boy" as a free download. Take the five seconds and click. You won't be disappointed.

If I may digress a moment, when I was doing a little research on this one I learned that Dufflecoat Records is folding up the tent. During their brief time, those folks proved they had quite an ear for the indie pop that's right in my wheelhouse. Sad news, indeed. We hardly knew ye. The fire sale continues here. Visit while you can.