Infinite Shuffle

Sometimes when I review a band, I’ll make some comparisons to other bands that are tenuous at best. This review, however, is not one of those instances.

When I first heard Lower Dens, there was no mistaking their similarities to fellow post-punk, electro-drone bands Wild Nothing and The XX.

In fact, after hearing the Lower Dens’ debut full-length release, Twin-Hand Movement, I immediately added them to my “Trance” playlist that includes the two aforementioned bands — as well as Zola Jesus. The soft vocals, slow pace and fuzzy guitars are a perfect accompaniment to an evening on the couch.

While I’d say they probably lean more toward Wild Nothing’s sound, you can hear elements of The XX throughout as well. Here’s a great example of both:

This Baltimore-based four-piece formed in early 2009 when vocalist Jana Hunter — she of many varied solo and group projects — set about finding a full-time band. Their first album hit the streets this past July.

I had seen their name here and there but had not heard any music until their ditty, “Blue & Silver”, was included on a recent NPR All Songs Considered podcast. I knew immediately that I needed to hear more.

Other strong tracks include “Completely Golden”, “I Get Nervous” and “Hospice Gates”

The group is touring in Europe right now, but its heading back to the States in January for a few shows in the Mid-Atlantic. Keep an eye on the band’s official website to see if it’s headed your way.

And if you’re really digging Lower Dens, you can check out the Tiny Desk Concert they did at NPR.