Album Review: Andy Salge ‘Shuffle’
An exciting new release hit the Indianapolis music scene last month in the form of Andy Salge’s solo debut Shuffle. The album marks the first official release from Nick Vote’s Great Tasting Studios. Vote doubled as studio instrumentalist for many of Shuffle’s seven tracks. Salge’s effort marks a significant change of course from his work as bassist with Blue Moon Revue (who will drop its own release, produced by Alan Johnson of Static Shack Studios, sometime this summer).
Many of the album’s melodies are built around synth-heavy beats and heavy bass tracks. This marks a first for Salge as the synthesizer is an instrument that rarely sees the light of day on his BMR work. Salge’s strong songwriting is the one carry over from both projects. He keeps the structures simple here, shorter songs laden with addictive hooks—lyrically and instrumentally.
Any of you readers have shitty jobs? Next time you’re rolling out of work at 5 o’clock, roll down your windows, spark a cigarette, turn your speakers up and blast “Call it a Day.” Tell me this track is not as satisfying as that first beer on the couch after a long day. Fair waning, road rage may shortly ensue—but you will enjoy it.
“It’s On” is an addictive track that will remain engrained in your psyche for weeks on end. “Find a Way” falls in line as another catchy, danceable track. The rest of the album can be a little scatter-brained; Shuffle proves an apt title as the songs bounce through varying themes and musical styles. I tend to think of this as a success rather than a failure.
Shuffle, more than anything else, should be viewed as an experiment for Salge. This was not a calculated, year-in-the-making release. That will come in the form of BMR’s release this summer. However, I am excited that he has opened the door to new possibilities as a musician. As previously stated, the songwriting here is solid and that ain’t going to change. It will be interesting to see what shape that writing takes on as Salge grows more comfortable behind the keyboard and synthesizer.
Other good tunes from Shuffle: “Song for Aaron” & “I Suppose”
Roll up to Salge’s new smoke-infused single: “Treat Yourself”
Stream Andy Salge’s new album Shuffle:
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Album Review: Triptides release ‘Psychic Summer’
I am a sucker for the Surf Pop segment of the indie scene and Triptides punches you in the face with it – albeit in a mellow manner. San Francisco bands Sonny & The Sunsets, Thee Oh Sees, and Ty Segall have accounted for some of the sweetest Garage Rock that I’ve heard in years. Throw West Palm Beach, FL band Surfer Blood in the mix and now we are grouping together my current favorite bands. ENTER: Psychic Summer, Triptides’ first full-length LP from the indie label Beach Tapes.
I was intrigued by this group after a discovery via bandcamp. Their EP Tropical Dreams was a natural extension of the sound I’ve been digging from the aforementioned Surf Pop circuit. After hearing Tropical Dreams, I could not believe that this band had escaped me. Upon research and investigation I came to the shocking discovery that this music had not originated in a state where a sunburns are as common as parking tickets. These guys were from my home state. These guys were from Bloomington, Indiana.
Psychic Summer is a group of songs that defines hard work, dedication, and authenticity. Opening tracks “Going Under” and “Pier” help display their sound but also underscore their improvement since the earlier EP. Triptides has not changed their formula they have only evolved it. Songs, like “Outlaw” display their dedication to simple strong guitar riffs while pairing it with effective lyrics. The line, “There will come a time when I will go way to another town, never settle down” helps to display the nomadic message of Triptides.
It is no coincidence that this band from Bloomington, IN is debuting their album in San Diego, Fullerton and Santa Cruz, California. Their roots come from 2,100 miles away but you’d never be able to tell upon discovery. I respect their wandering toes and dedication to find their niche. It takes a novelist’s eye to find a seam in indie rock. Triptides is a sailor’s step in front. Buy their album for $4 here:
Written by @IndyMcGrath
Thought on Tracks 
This week: Great Shows from MOKB Presents & Luna Music
Work proves less daunting with the prospect of a delicious reward at the end of the week. As usual, MOKB Presents is offering a couple of terrific distractions from the grind. In a city known for its naps, Dodge and friends continue to provide its natives with a multitude of reasons to stay awake.
Tomorrow night, Ray LaMontagne and his Pariah Dogs will bring their batch of bluesy foot-stompers from the recent God Willin’ & the Creek Don’t Rise to The Lawn at White River. Reluctantly, I’ll be sitting this one out. Due to a recent robbery, the pocket money ain’t what it used to be.
That being said, God Willin’ & the Creek Don’t Rise is arguably LaMontagne’s strongest work to date. The album marks LaMontagne’s first stint as producer. The Pariah Dogs fill-out his songwriting nicely, without turning it into something different. The album would have worked flawlessly as the soundtrack to the Jeff Bridges film Crazy Heart.
Some of my favorite tracks include: “Beg Steal or Borrow”, “New York City’s Killing Me”, and “The Devil’s in the Jukebox”
Friday offers a double feature of up-and-coming indie act Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr. From 4 until 7 PM, the band will do a free, in-store performance at Luna Music. Later that evening, the duo will take the stage at White Rabbit Cabaret. Phantasmagoria and Hot Fox will be on hand to lend support. Doors open at 8. Tickets are $8 in advance $10 at the door.
It’s A Corporate World is one of my favorite releases from 2011. The Detroit duo is comprised of Daniel Zott and Josh Epstein. Catchy hooks and Beach Boysesque harmonies abound on their addictive debut release. White Rabbit is the place to be this Friday.
Favorite Tracks: “Morning Thought”, “Nothing But Our Love”, “An Ugly Person On a Movie Screen”
Click here for a free download of the single “Morning Thought.”
Click here to listen to Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr.’s recent Daytrotter Session.
KCRW Presents: Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr.: here via NPR