the smittens

Various Artists: Wish I’d Kept A Scrapbook (A Tribute to Tullycraft) [Album Review]

Andy Fenstermaker
July 8, 2010July 8, 2010

When I saw there was a new compilation devoted to hailing one of the greatest northwest bands of all time (yes, Tullycraft), I got pretty excited. When I saw that the tracklist included bands from famed labels like Tullycraft’s very own Magic Marker Records, as well as HHBTM, Matinee, and even recent favorite weePOP, my excitement blew through the roof. Look down the track list (it’s at the end of this review… I’ll forgive you for pausing to check it out) and you’ll see some of the greatest indie pop and modern twee bands around today. Fishboy. Iji. Casper & The Cookies. Galactic Heroes. Math & Physics Club. The Besties. Hot Lava. Oh man, this is gonna be good. Read More »Various Artists: Wish I’d Kept A Scrapbook (A Tribute to Tullycraft) [Album Review]

The Smittens: The Coolest Thing About Love [Album Review]

Andy Fenstermaker
January 21, 2009April 11, 2009

Written by Fense

The Smittens (MySpace) fit the darker side of indie pop, a side not often heard but easily welcome. Their chord progressions are filled with minors and, while ultimately upbeat, the songs are not nearly as cheerful. This rings as true on “The Interstate” as it does on “Half My Heart Beats”, a song that is undoubtedly more upbeat and cheerful, but one that also includes several of the aforementioned darker elements. Read More »The Smittens: The Coolest Thing About Love [Album Review]