Harlem: Garage Rock's Grimy, Booze-Soaked Bubblegum

Austin-based trio Harlem has released their Matador debut, 'Hippies,' presenting a distinct garage rock sound. Their music infuses bubblegum choruses with a gritty, authentic flavor, reminiscent of Nuggets and Pixies. The band embraces a raw, unpolished aesthetic, eschewing excessive fuzz pedals.

'Hippies' showcases songwriting depth with themes that are both dark and singable. Tracks like "Someday Soon" and "Torture Me" explore unsettling narratives with catchy melodies. Songwriting duties are shared by co-founders Michael Coomer and Curtis O'Mara, creating a compelling duality. Coomer's contributions often carry a stormy tenor, while O'Mara's offer a more hopeful, psychotropic vibe.

The album features a wealth of hooks, almost presenting as a parade of singles rather than a cohesive album. While it might slightly overstay its welcome, energetic tracks like "Stripper Sunset" highlight the band's undeniable jam capabilities and raw appeal.