Taking its name from a character in a J.R.R. Tolkien poem, this band from North Carolina put together an album full of energy, passion and heart. Produced by Scott Solter (John Vanderslice, St. Vincent, The Mountain Goats), Tarpits & Canyonlands gives the vocals center stage. Tracks “Honeymoon” and “Marriage” have hints of Paul Simon and Cat Stevens, while “Laurita” is sung entirely in Spanish and “Sad Birthday” has a young, lighthearted sound that recalls the upbeat songs of Architecture in Helsinki and Matt & Kim. – Written by DBosket
SIMILAR | The Apples in Stereo, Avett Brothers, Elf Power, Sufjan Stevens, Vampire Weekend