The Laurels - Plains (2012)

Though formed in 2006, Australia's Laurels look for inspiration as far back as the early '80s, when the garage rock renaissance was using the energy of punk and new wave to create new forms of psychedelia. Though they've been compared to shoegazers and stoner rockers, The Laurels are also reminiscent of Sweden's Nomads and the trippier elements of the '80s Paisley Underground scene in Southern California. "Changing the Timeline" bristles with that crazy intensity, recalling a time when effort was as important as finesse. Moving toward the future, "Traversing the Universe" is a trashier, brasher version of what Blur was attempting in the earliest Britpop days. Producer Liam Judson (Cloud Control) ensures that just as The Laurels' debut EP, Mesozoic, stretched the various edges of their sound, the debut album, Plains, is also a deeply layered fusion of indelible melodies, careful instrumentation, and freakouts. Dual guitarists and vocalists Piers Cornelius and Luke O'Farrell care little for dominating the band, but rather weave their contributions together for the sake of the sound.

Through years of touring and shows with the likes of The Black Angels, Wooden Ships, Swervedriver, Low and Tame Impala, The Laurels have developed a solid reputation as one of the country’s best live bands. Their debut album Plains was released to huge praise and support. This is a must have for any psych or Australian record collector.