On The Cusp: John Maus

John Maus, May 21st, 2011 photo by Erez Avissar

Best known for his stint with critically acclaimed indie rocker outfit Ariel Pink, who skyrocketed into the public view after being signed to Animal Collective's Paw Tracks label, John Maus is gearing up to release his third solo album entitled We Must Become The Pitiless Censors Of Ourselves. Maus has an unmistakable passion for vintage electronica; his music seems like something you'd hear shaking the windows of a dingy nightclub in the 1980's where locals went to binge on acid. The analog synth trippiness and Maus' eerie, drawling vocals make for a bizarre atmosphere that can occasionally border on creepy but is always a joy to listen to. Below, you can check out the video to his newest single "Believer", made using vintage tape recorders and "video synthesizers" that add to the obvious 80's vibe. We Must Become The Pitiless Censors Of Ourselves will be released on June 28th by Upset The Rhythm. You can download a free mp3 of "Believer" from http://soundcloud.com/upset-the-rhythm/john-maus-believer-free-mp3.

On The Cusp: Dignan

Image courtesy of Daytrotter

Dignan

Dignan is a band who captured my attention the instant that I heard them, their sound is something unique and sultry, but filled with intensity and and honesty.  Based out of McAllen, Texas, Dignan is a five-piece band fronted by Andy Pena that draws heavily from bands like Radiohead, Broken Social Scene, and Arcade Fire.  I know that throwing around names like that as comparisons draws a bit of an idealistic vibe to the band, but they live up to it without a shadow of a doubt.  Songs like "Whistler" on their 2009 release, "Cheaters & Thieves" take the listener on a sonic adventure with the song ranging from sweet and subtle harmonies, with a catchy whistling melody to boot, to booming chants and resounding drums.  It's not just the way that Andy sings though that draws the listener in, it's what he's saying.