Ganglion Reef, the new album from L.A. band Wand is one of my favorite debuts this year. The album is out on Ty Segall’s God? imprint via Chicago’s Drag City. Shortly into the album, you’ll see why Segall likes the band. Wand delivers great songs (Flying Golem, Clearer, Broken Candle) and there are really no stinkers. This style of psych-garage definitely will appeal to Segall fans but also should grab your attention if you’re into Tame Impala or Temples.
Wand plays Empty Bottle Sunday.
I know Dinosaur Jr. front man J Mascis can shred an electric guitar. I also know he can rock an acoustic as he demonstrates on the recently released Tied to a Star. Even if Mascis’ ear-splitting guitar solos are your thing, you’ll likely dig this one.
Sloan has been cranking out perfect pop for more than two decades. On Commonwealth, the band divides the album in quarters, giving each band member a turn. So you’ll find the power pop songs you’d expect on a Sloan album in addition to a harder group of sounds and even an 18-minute experimental piece.
All the Young Punks 