It’s been a few months since I threw together a podcast, so I figured it was about time for another one. Besides, I’ve been working diligently on a mix-tape for a new local pal, Brett Sandström, whom I met after purchasing a Tullycraft single on eBay – he being the seller, both of us being astonished to find other Tullycraft fans in Skagit County. What began as a modern tribute to light garage pop ultimately changed direction to hint at songs that fit a sweltering, hot summer day.

On my radar this year is one of Seattle’s newest and most prolific artists, Justin Ripley. I have, honestly, loved pretty much everything he has passed my way — and all of it (to my limited, often diverted knowledge) has been in the year of 2010. A full length as well as a small handful of other releases under his own name, and an impressive debut LP with friends Tara Sloan and Evan Lesure under the guise Salmon Thrasher. It’s only been a few months since the …

Personal Space is the latest solo work by Justin Ripley, who not all too long ago gave us Just Just. From the opening notes of “The Gold Of Similar Sand”, we’re treated to a similar sound though it has a few more psychedelic sensibilities. The song gives the impression of minimalism, yet is packed with interesting riffs, catchy vocal hooks, and precisely placed instrumentation.

It’s finally here — the Salmon Thrasher debut CD release party. Although they’re calling it a “discharge” party, which conjures all sorts of unpleasant images. But then again, they are a band named Salmon Thrasher, so what can you expect?. The debut album is called What Gives and you can pick it up over at their bankcamp page. The “Discharge Party” kicks off at 9pm this Saturday (April 17) at Blue Moon Tavern. The band will play with My Goodness and Police Teeth.

Not all too long ago, I featured an exclusive track by a brand new Seattle band called Salmon Thrasher. Member Justin Ripley recently sent me a homemade album he recorded for close friends and various music types. He dubbed it Just Just, as, well, it was just Justin performing. He wrote the songs, played the instruments, mixed the album… you get the picture. Because it’s not a full-on release release, I’m dubbing it worthy of a Demo Reel.

Seattle is known for a few things. Fish is one, salmon in particular. Grunge in another. And then there’s rain. Salmon Thrasher, the latest (literally) garage band from The Emerald City, is a moniker that fulfills two out of three of those items. Apt title. So this news has is twofold: an introduction to the newest Seattle band, and the announcement of their first ever show.