Tapes 'N Tapes: Walk It Off

Label: XL Recordings

This Minneapolis-based indie band’s sophomore album comes two years after their well-received release of The Loon, which left critics comparing them to Pavement. Backed by melodies of epic heroics (which hint at Arcade Fire’s influence) lead singer Josh Grier’s confident voice of authority delivers obtuse lyrics that reach for profundity. A boiling excitement exists throughout and nips at the heels of a vocalist who never betrays his tone of edgy detachment. The experimental musicians are at their best when their sound is unforced, letting the song naturally move through a series of catchy loops. In “Hang Them All,” racing drums drive the song along until the building ominous sound erupts into openness, while “Say Back Something” is a tentative love song that asks, “Why don’t you meet me in the morning/ My arms will meet you in the air.” (Margi)