Girlsgirlsgirlsgirlsgirlsgirlsgirlsgirls.

MP3: Girls - Ghost Mouth
MP3: Girls - Life In San Francisco

Personally, I try not to buy into hype. You can typically tell when something is or is not worthy of the hysteria, but every now and then a small element in the grand image throws you off course and causes you to ultimately reject something that otherwise could've been one of the best things for you in your life.

When Girls hit the blog scene, I noticed their name coming up on all of my favourite columns yet something just wouldn't click with me. I even saw the original pressing of the "Lust For Life" 7 inch at a trusted friend's house, and was staring at it's striking cover (which is a photo of a cute girl just smiling) - I actually started to notice that trend in all of their singles, but it wasn't enough.

Lately, however, I've been trying to listen to as much new music as I can, going in blind in most cases and hoping for the best. When I came across Girls' "Album", my past reservations had faded completely, and were suddenly transformed into an overwhelming burst of curiosity. So yeah, I went for it and listened to it again and again and again. This was incredible to me, and I was kicking myself for not going to a show they played a week before when they were in town or for not picking up any of the singles when they were released last year. But I didn't feel behind really, just inspired by the greatness of this album.

In fact, I think it's safe to say I'm very glad I didn't pay attention in those early days. I love being able to take in "Lust For Life" and "Hellhole Ratrace" in the context of a record, and not as a single mp3 file. The songs actually do work on their own though, perfect for mix tapes or a quick listen on the way to the post office.

The music itself can be described as passionate and meaningful, very warmly recorded and a great example of pop music done right with sticky hooks and lyrics that are brave and honest, bundled with a kind of bravado unseen in the 21st century music environment.

Christopher Owens sings like a kind of recluse, and I find that very easy to relate to. The desires he sings about and the situations he craves spoke to me and I can see "Album" being a treasured LP in my collection for the rest of my life. I have complete faith in what's to come from these guys, and cannot wait a second for more.

Enjoy "Ghost Mouth" from "Album" and "Life In San Francisco" from the "Lust For Life" 7 inch single reissue, both from the great True Panther out this moment. Run!