The liner notes to Poppy Patica's debut release, Tripping None, claim that the music is a blend of modern experimental pop and 80's pop/punk. However, listening to this EP for the first time I was overwhelmed by memories not of listening to 80's music for the first time, but rather of listening to of Montreal's first album Cherry Peel, released in 1997. What came across to me on this album was the sound of 90s- indie legends like of Montreal, The Unicorns, and Deerhoof/hunter.

From the heart twinging chord changes on “Sink” to the lo-fi buzz of “Top”, this release modernizes some of the best elements of 90's indie pop, and the result is truly wonderful.

A great debut from DC's Poppy Patica.

-Written by Michael Dranove

Savage, Maryland based (seriously) power metal outfit Burning Shadows returns with their third full length release, Truth in Legend. True to the power metal penchant for symphonic tales of medieval era non-fiction and fantasy, Truth in Legend features songs about Norse mythology, the execution of the Knights Templar, and a song inspired by the game Skyrim. Whether power metal is your thing or not, the musicianship on this album is impressive. There is nary a guitar riff that doesn’t line up perfectly with the tight, driving drum/bass beats; and the lead singer moves through upper and lower registers with ease.

Here is “Day of Darkness” from Burning Shadow’s latest release, Truth in Legend.

-Written by Michael Dranove

An exclusive premiere for Deli readers! The Duskwhales have released the first video from their forthcoming album, Sorrowful Mysteries. The single, Friday The 13th, heralds forward momentum for the DC-based trio. Recorded in a professional-grade studio, the song is mature, relative to the band's previous efforts. Where once the energy was unbridled, it now feels tamed – almost simmering and ready to burst forth like a stalking panther. Stirring lyrics and keys reminiscents of The Animals' Alan Price, the band masterfully builds and releases the musical tension, revealing the honed craft of their melodies. Capping the mood is somber video art by Outlet Mall Brain Asylum. Catch The Duskwhales' album release show at Jammin' Java in Vienna on 4/8! -Jonathan Goodwin  

Billing themselves as a therapeutic cure to “Tired all the Time” (TATT) syndrome, TATT’s edgeless tracks seem in many ways to mimic the emotionally dulling effects of anti-depressants. There are no snarling guitars, extended drum solos, or soaring Bono vocals on TATT’s new release PLEASE STOP, the stimulation from the music is intentionally blunted. However, beneath the smoothed out “post-pop” is an attempt to tap into deep despair, fitting for a band that aims to, “calm and sooth the existential stress of life”.

All in all, a highly original release from the Baltimore newcomers.  

-Written by Michael Dranove

 This Saturday, Baltimore's favorite dance rock sons are back with at Ottobar, hosting the show and bringing their friends. The Milestones are blessing the gig with their oh-so infectious rock and roll, replete with saucy guitar riffs and gravelly vocals spilling out from the stage. Playing the night (in reverse order) will be friends of the band Luna June – a catchy melodic rock quintet from Towson, The (aforementioned) Milestones, The Fun Boys – an extremely energetic experimental garage band out of Frederick, Copper Marmalade – an experimental pop singer-songwriter hailing from Baltimore, and the openers will be Stevie Matthews' Analog Kids – a Batlimore-based trio that plays barebones, cut-and-dried rock music.

 The night's going to be one to remember and one not worth missing, so catch this stellar lineup of Maryland's finest rock music at Ottobar, 8pm, 4/1. $10 advance, $12 at the door. -Jonathan Goodwin