My First Earthquake - Friction [free MP3s]

My First Earthquake's new album Friction dropped on June 7, and I don't need to tell you they're awesome, because you already know that. They're based in San Francisco, and play fun, frenetic music with jangling guitars, kickin' rhythms, and a heavy splashing of synth. And in a music scene where many indie bands sound frighteningly alike, Rebecca Bortman's vocals stand out from the crowd.

The new tracks are lush and intricately layered and they have a cataclysmic amount of energy, but you already knew that. They're My First Earthquake's.

Just listen to these tracks:

My First Earthquake - "Clone Me"
My First Earthquake - "Nice to See You"

This is their second full album, after Downstairs (2009), and they've also released two 2 EPs, Tremors (2008) and Crush (2010), so these guys are in it for the long haul. Contrary to the lyrics on "Clone Me," this is one band with a dynamic that can't be replaced. Official site.

Fulton Read

Fulton Read is an Austin indie rock band. They're working on a new album, and have a folksy rock sound, with great percussion and guitar work (especially acoustic guitar, which I don't hear much these days), murmuring piano melodies alternating with strings, and well-placed vocals. You can check out some of their new music on their Facebook page, or in the music player below. I really like the give and take in the song "Synchronize."

Just an update

I have an inbox crammed full of fascinating things to share with you all, including notices of several new releases from bands I love, but I'm afraid I'm going to have to postpone my write-ups for a few more days. I don't mean to go weeks without a post, but let me explain.

I got my nursing school pin yesterday (whoo!) but then a tornado struck my city today (awful!). I'm fine and my family is fine, but things are a little hectic. Just follow my Twitter (@kilexia) and I will retweet what I see and announce when I can get posts out again. Thanks everyone for your patience.