Givers | In Light

Glassnote (2011)

By DEVON MALONEY | June 9, 2011

3.0 Stars

When Givers self-released their first EP two years ago, it was easy to pigeonhole the Lafayette, Louisiana, quintet as just another baby buzz band, a dime-a-dozen blog filler. The four songs were fun, but not particularly impressive — an EP can say only so much. Now, with their first full-length, the pop ensemble demonstrate what they can do when given the chance to stretch their legs. In its entirety, the album is a contagious summer hit demanding toes to tap, heads to bop, and pool parties to be had. The group's first release on Glassnote, with whom they signed earlier this year, bursts with riffs and rhythm that take cues from '50s doo-wop and modern Afro-pop. The influence of Dirty Projectors frontman Dave Longstreth, who recognized their potential early in the game and invited them to open for the experimental pop bastion, is evident as well, especially on tracks like "Ripe" and "Atlantic." In Light is an impressive step forward — it seriously contends for the title of this summer's go-to indie-pop record. Recommended: for rallying for work or class on groggy mornings, keeping spirits up while scrubbing your kitchen clean, and picnicking in the park on blazing July weekends.

GIVERS + PEPPER RABBIT | The Middle East, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge | June 19 @ 8pm | $12 | 18+ | 617.864.3278

Topics: CD Reviews , Music, Louisiana, Pop, More

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GIVERS | IN LIGHT | June 09, 2011
When Givers self-released their first EP two years ago, it was easy to pigeonhole the Lafayette, Louisiana, quintet as just another baby buzz band, a dime-a-dozen blog filler.