Posse - Soft Opening (2014) Lossless

Posse is a three piece indie band from Seattle and "Soft Opening" is their 2nd album following their self-titled release in 2012. Their sound is twinkling, ringing guitars, some bass (?) and drums. Vocals are sometimes hushed but always sort of matter-of-fact. Lyrics are mostly melancholy and reflective. I'm reminded of a few other bands when I hear Posse, The Feelies, 90s indie band Half String, Galaxie 500, Yo La Tengo, and more recently Real Estate. Those aren't perfect comparisons but just what comes into my head when I hear Posse. The two stand out tracks on this album are "Afraid" a gentle pop number with a sweet, infectious hook and "Shut Up" which has one of the best guitar breaks you'll hear this year. For a six and a half minute song, it seems to be over almost as soon as it's begun. Two other tracks growing on me are "Jon" and the closer "Zone", another extended jam. But "Shut Up" could very well be the soundtrack to this coming Spring season and if anyone asks for music recommendations I won't hesitate to point them towards Posse.