Wavves Post Acid

Surf's up dudes and dudettes -- surf rock is here to stay, and L.A.-based Wavves is one of the shining lights re-introducing the genre into popular music conversations.

I'm from Australia, and have only reviewed Australian music so far on Indie Shuffle, but was surprised to find that nobody had already posted about Wavves. King of the Beach is one of my favorites of the year, and I felt that I needed to share it with those who had not yet been exposed to its brilliance.

Nathan Williams, Wavves frontman, is a troubled young character. Wavves formed in 2008 and quickly released two albums, Self Titled and Wavvves. After admitting to having an alcohol problem after a very public spat with his then-drummer (Ryan Ulsh) at Primavera Festival in Barcelona in 2009, many thought that was it for the band and Williams. But, after reforming alongside drummer Billy Hayes and bassist Stephen Pope (both formerly of Jay Reatard), Wavves are back in a big way.

Their new album, King of the beach, was released in August 2010 just in time for the (Australian) summer. Basically, it's powerful, fast-paced noise pop at its best, with Williams' energetic vocals reeking havoc over the top.

Title track "King of the Beach" is the epitome of this laid-back surfer punk sound, with Williams staking his claim from the get-go as sovereign of the genre. I almost can smell the scent of the ocean as I listen. "Post Acid" continues in the same vein, although the lyrics (if you listen carefully) are quite heartfelt. "Green Eyes" seems to be a window into Williams' psyche, the lyrics "my own friends hate my guts, but I don't give a shit" give us an indication of his abrasive nature.

Abrasive or not, Williams is a genius, and coupled with his equally famous girl, Bethany Cosentino from Best Coast, he will be hard to slow down. Currently touring the world together, this power couple is receiving rave reviews from critics and fans alike.