I just graduated from college in the Chicago area, and now that I get out into the city a lot more often, I get the chance to pick up on bands making the rounds at local venues. Pet Lions are one such buzzed about local group that has opened for Maps & Atlases and White Rabbits around the city. They released the Soft Right EP back in spring 2009, but their full-length debut Houses came out in the beginning of May, full of shimmery tracks just in time for summer. The album title is pretty apt, as the band shifts from style to style pretty easily, though always within the confines of staying catchy, which isn’t a bad thing at all.
With influences as diverse as the catchy moments of Sonic Youth (“When I Grow Old”) to the power pop of Phoenix (“Mexican Cigarettes”), these guys are all over the map reaching for the tightest hook. My favorite at the moment is album closer and great beach track “Thieves” which melds some great harmonies into a foundation of unimpeded guitars. It’s like bubblegum indie rock, enjoy it while you can.
Stream the full album below or at Pet Lions’ Bandcamp site, or head over to their official website to see some live performance videos that give you an idea of their shows around Chicago. Hopefully they’ll get out on a full tour soon, they’re a lot of fun.
Connect with Pet Lions – Facebook / Twitter / Website / Bandcamp
Pet Lions – “When I Grow Old”
Pet Lions – “Mexican Cigarettes”
