Walrus
Family Hangover, Madic Records, madicrecords.com
There’s a distinct British flavour radiating from these songs. Maybe it’s the reverb. Maybe it’s the way Justin Murphy’s singing summons memories of Suede and The Byrds. Walrus’ affinity for 1960s rock is well documented, but their approach is more modern than that foundation might suggest. This is woozy neo-psychedelia that’s never lazy with its structure or pace. Imagine Yukon Blonde’s enduringly catchy “Rather Be With You” adapted, stretched and warped across 45 minutes. Family Hangover is the kind of album where every song counts for something. (Scott Bryson)