Florida's Surfer Blood are back with their third album, 1000 Palms. After 2013's Pythons the band parted ways with Warner Bros and decided to make a return to their DIY roots. Recorded by the band largely in the living room of drummer Tyler Schwarz' parents' house, the album is filled with upbeat songs that recall the sunny sensibilities of their debut. The guitar theatrics of their previous releases are traded off for layers of synthesizers and new wave ambitions. Embattled front-man John Paul Pitts delivers some of his most introspective lyrics, however he sides steps dealing directly with his past demons. Overall 1000 Palms seems to mark a turning point for Surfer Blood, one that finds the band maturing and further developing their sound.

• limited edition sky blue vinyl pressing
• includes free download
• music label: Joyful Noise Recordings 2015

reviewed by Le Haim 06/2015