MIDLAKE "The Trials Of Van Occupanther"
MIDLAKE "Bamnan And Slivercork"

NEWSFLASH! Classic rock has infiltrated indie rock. Yes, it's been going on for some time now, even before Karate starting doing Steely Dan inspired imitations. But, now, you can go to your uber snot friend's parties and no longer are they ashamed of a little Fleetwood Mac or Supertramp popping up on the iTunes, rather, they rejoice! Classic rock has gotten smarter, too, in the process. The "don't stop, thinkin' about tomorrow" lyrics have been traded in for more subtle and poetic imagery, more articulate heartbreak, and, while, less fun, more substantial.

From the opening piano of "Roscoe", Midlake definitely channel the aforementioned "Mac" adding soulful harmonies and a touch of Chris Rea or Boz Scaggs shuffle. I'm so glad that indie rock has taken this off ramp into a village way more interesting than Woweezoweetown or Doolittleville. I mean, for starters, the guitars are kinda in tune. It's smoother and more listener friendly, possibly, but delicious, a big wonderful AM radio vanilla milkshake and I'm spilling it all down the front of my shirt.

Midlake are from Denton, TX, which tells me they've been holed up refining their sound and songs without much distraction from their immediate surroundings. I missed the boat on their first LP, Bamnan And Silvercork, but their upcoming second album, The Trials Of Van Occupanther, will certainly make the rounds. It's out on July 25th on the Bella Union label. They also play three area shows (if your area is the 212 or 718), two at Mercury Lounge and one at Southpaw, July 28, 29, and 30 respectively.

I know the blogs have been hyping the hell out of Midlake, but it's justified. I'm posting two tracks that I love, but also ones that have been posted widely before, in consideration to the band, because you need to run out and get both albums, immediately. Now. And then go grab Fleetwood Mac's Mystery To Me and the Eagles' On The Border if you're feeling sassy.

ROSCOE
KINGFISH PIES