Музыка и песни Tops / Tops на LP

I Feel Alive

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TOPS are a four-piece band from Montreal, equal parts girls and guys, delivering a raw punk take on AM studio pop. Change Of Heart / Sleeptalker is a 7" record with their lead single "Change Of Heart" backed with "Sleeptalker". Both songs are featured on their new record, "Picture You Staring", which is a lush array of timelessly crafted songs. Singer Jane Penny gives a new voice to the silent girl at the edge of the circle, disillusioned but honest and unpretentious, a tone complemented by David Carriere's seamless guitar playing and the measured drumming of Riley Fleck. TOPS' subtle arrangements are delivered with a cool restraint that blend with the individuality and self-assured desire of their female lead. Change Of Heart / Sleeptalker gathers strength through intimacy. Self-written, recorded and produced at Arbutus Record's studio in Montreal, these are impeccable examples of pop craftsmanship that will reward repeat listeners. Record Label: Arbutus Records Style: Independent

Over the course of the last few years, the independent pop scene in Montreal has become quite vibrant, birthing a slew of interesting up-and-comers. Largely at the center of this movement is Arbutus Records, a label that has shed light on deserving artists like Blue Hawaii, Braids and Grimes and helped to make the city a music destination if you happen to be North of the Border. TOPS are Arbutus’ next bunch of heat seekers, and though their album cover might make one think they’re a bunch of fresh faced youngsters, the quartet has actually spent a good deal of time playing in various Montreal bands of past and present including Silly Kissers and Pat Jordache. Their level of experience shines through on Tender Opposites, a record full of ethereal pop music that shares a lot in common with the AM radio sounds of the 70’s and 80’s. The most noticeable feature of TOPS’ arsenal is the vocal work of Jane Penny. Her voice is reminiscent of Stevie Nicks and contemporary singers like Laetitia Sadier of Stereolab and Andrea Estella of Twin Sister to name a few. Tender Opposites succeeds both as a pop record and as something from out of left field. The blending of the avant-garde with the everyday makes for an infinitely approachable record and one that rewards the listener throughout. It’s familiar at some points and completely alien at others, but it’s always accessible. With such a solid debut under their belts it wouldn’t come as a surprise if TOPS eventually achieve the same level of indie stardom as their label mate Grimes. Record Label: Arbutus Style: Alternative Pop

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