dream pop

After walking away from huge hype and a major label deal in 1999, disappearing completely, UK's Merz (Conrad Lambert to his mum) returned in 2005 with his 2nd album, the critically lauded, Loveheart (released by UK indie Gronland Records). His third album, Moi et Mon Camion (released by Gronland in March 2008), produced the same kind of acclaim from all corners with its mixture of beautiful balladeering, heartfelt tunes, intricate production and a display of Merz

San Cisco are from Fremantle in sunny Western Australia. On the weekends they love to go skateboarding, play Nintendo 64 and make a bit of indie pop on the side. Scarlett bangs the drums, Nick plays the electric bass, Jordi & Josh are the guys that play the guitars, write the songs and sing them. San Cisco have spent the last year graduating high school, performing at some festivals and playing round town pretty much every weekend.

Californian local Justin Vallesteros, better known as indie-pop band Craft Spells, convey a special something in their forthcoming album “Idle Labor”. Originating in a private space at home, Justin’s melodies are infectious, sometimes even haunting. A zeitgeist for the dreamers, his whimsical yet somehow strong voice beautifully captures and communicates a mysterious kind of emotion, gently swaying the listener into an unknown place.

James Dean, the Lost Idol, likes to think his unique and often unpredictable psychedelic downtempo sound stems from happy studio accidents. When it comes to making music, he gets his kicks from doing something different, paying little regard to fashion or formula. Thankfully others appreciated this attitude and enabled him to release early Lost Idol creations on pioneering independent label Pork Recordings.