Lavalove’s sophomore release out now on Pure Noise Records, ‘Tan Lines‘ is the sonic equivalent of a perfect beach day where you actually remembered to reapply sunscreen. This album is a masterclass in sun-soaked indie rock that is both nostalgic and refreshing, led by the high-energy “California Cheerleading” style vibes of frontwoman Tealarose Coy. One minute you’re vibing to the jangly, surf-rock sugar rush of “Go Go Boots,” and the next you’re realizing the catchy “Sniffin’ Around” is actually a darkly humorous tale about a cheating boyfriend. It’s the kind of record that meets life’s heaviness head-on, choosing to confront it with a drink in hand and a killer melody, like the shimmery, glossy opener “Hopelessly Devoted.”
Lately, I have been listening to it for my drives to the local movie theater, Avalon, as my buddy Jack and I have been hitting the movie theater regularly again—and honestly, it kicks ass. There is something about that massive screen and the rumbling sound system that just can’t be replicated at home. I’d almost forgotten the simple majesty of an ice-cold, large theater Diet Coke and a huge bucket of popcorn. I mean, I have all that stuff in my kitchen back at my apartment, but in the theater, it somehow tastes ten times better. It’s a total sensory upgrade that reminds me why getting out of the house for entertainment is still the gold standard.
That “theater magic” is exactly how I feel about live music versus just listening to an album on repeat. While ‘Tan Lines‘ is a blast while listening through my little Bluetooth speaker while doing the dishes, you just know these feedback-drenched tracks like “Messing With The Man” are meant to be experienced in a crowded room with the bass thumping in your chest. Lavalove has already built a reputation for wild, high-energy live shows, and I’m really crossing my fingers that they announce a Milwaukee date soon so I can join the party in person. Until then, I’ll be blasting these songs on the way to catch the next blockbuster with my buddy Jack.
Links of interest:
https://www.instagram.com/lavaloveband/
https://purenoise.merchnow.com/collections/lavalove
https://lavalove.bandcamp.com/album/tan-lines