Philly Music: Mazarin - We're Already There

Mazarin, "The New American Apathy"

Mazarin, "Louise"

The next entry in our look at the Philly Music scene is Mazarin, Philly boys who are on the verge of taking off. If there is any justice in this world, this band will be a big success in the next few years, headlining big shows and being featured on The OC Volume 20 and having their song play at the pivotal moment in some Zach Braff dramedy. Their music is beautiful, catchy and inviting, the type of band that once people hear, they instantly fall in love.

We're Already There is the band's latest release, two years in the making. That time was clearly well spent, as this is the one of the best releases of 2005. I only wish that I had heard this last year and that I had come up with a Top 10 list, as it would have been on there for sure. There isn't any obvious influence, lots of bands come to mind when you hear the CD. The Beach Boys, the Flaming Lips, The Postal Service, Neutral Milk Hotel, obscure psychedlic bands that I'll never hear, Can, whatever other reference evokes the psychedelic pop of Mazarin. The fuzzy guitars, harmonies, openness to using any sounds available (including the ocean!), that's what you get. "Louise" is my favorite track, one which shows that this band is more than cool sounds and can write a heartbreaking song with the best of them. Dig the bells and serene voices on "The New American Apathy" with the mechanical drum beat, reminiscent of the best Postal Service songs. Throughout, there is an willingness to open up their sound, a rarity in indie rock I think. Check out "Schroed(er)/Inger," which has an almost electro feel that works well.

The blog world has done its part to get the word out, as many have discussed this album. SCATTERBRAIN, See You In The Pit, Hello Gina, My Old Kentucky Blog, (((withoutsound))), So Much Silence, ANALOG blog, moistworks, 3hive and the CAMERA as PEN all took the time to write and upload some songs (most of the songs aren't available, except at Hello Gina, 3hive, (((withoutsound))) and SCATTERBRAIN). Pitchfork loved the album, giving it an 8.0.

Have we sold you yet? Yes? Good. Now go out and support these Philly guys and buy the album. Head to their site and get more info, free tunes and tour dates, or be their friend on myspace and form a lasting bond. For the record, they are touring with fellow Philly Music focus The Walkmen right now, so those of you out West have a chance to see an amazing double bill. I can't say enough good things about this band, can't wait to hear what's next.

Much more to come on the sounds of the 215, get at me with recommendations if your favorites or your band's music. Even better, just move to the city and become a part of something big.