New To Know: Meridene + Mimas

Meridene

This Eau Claire Wisconsin band gives the midwest pop scene something to be proud of. Their new album Something Like Blood doesn’t challenge the tried and tested sound the group has established with their previous two releases (one album one EP)  but it does give it a little spit a polish; as a result, there is some undeniable new sparkle in the music. The warm instrumentals don’t fall prey to excessively sparse, dry guitars or moody percussive outbreaks instead favoring solid arrangements that weave their away around you while you’re distracted by the slightly anxious but none the less intelligent lyrics. Recorded in Bon Iver’s home studio April Base in Northwest ‘Sconsin  Something Like Blood bears the touch of two very talented audio engineers – Brian Moen and T.W. Walsh- who know where the group needed some prodding and filling out. The energy and talent though are entirely sourced in Meridene’s four members who sound more in sync than ever in sound and mood on this album. This one is most definitely worth your ears.

[MP3] Gone, Baby Gone

Mimas

You haven’t heard quirky until you’ve listened to the Danish do quirky. Mimas’ new album Lifejacket is the supreme point of entry. There aren’t many acts that can deliver the kind of random yet delightfully witty subject matter that Mimas do without letting the kooky factor taking over. This foursome touch on the art of growing a moustache, lay off notices, guilt -amongst other things- while still executing some equally fascinating melodies. Their musical talent is clear as they are able to make even the most unusual lyrics seem ho hum. While there is certainly room to clean up some of their sound the group is off to a wildly entertaining start.

[MP3] Application