Mars

Guitar-centric noise-pop concept album about colonizing Mars. Not outright dystopian, but definitely some OK Computer vibes here. Great catchy hooks buried in raw distortion and the theremin-y alien sounds of vocals processed through a variety of guitar pedals. Upper Wilds is a relatively new (2017) trio formed by former members of Parts & Labor and Ex Models. The album was recorded by Martin Bisi, who previously worked in the studio with Sonic Youth, Swans, and Boredoms—and it really shows. All tracks FCC Clean. Try 1,3,4,6 RIYL: Guided by Voices, Sleigh Bells, Pill

*1. (4:32) Slow-building intro, transitions into a mid tempo rocker 2. (2:47) Sweet layered vocal harmonies, melts down into a frenzied freak out *3. (3:08) Driving drums and guitar riffs in a thick swirl of noise and distortion *4. (3:45) Straightforward rocker with fuzzed-out Guided by Voices vibes 5. (3:05) Layered vocal intro, washes of guitar, gloomy lyrics *6. (5:28) Growling guitars over a stuttering beat (definitely some of the better drumming on the album). Optimistic lyrics about placemaking, perspective shifting, you know…just the usual setbacks of a new extraterrestrial realm 7. (1:38) Atmospheric instrumental. Slow, with squealing heavily distorted guitarwork 8. (4:19) Echoed vocals, crunchy guitars, and squealing vocal effects 9. (6:05) Long droney outro with record crackles and NASA samples