Whitney

Former members of Smith Westerns and Unknown Mortal Orchestra make up the cast of the jazzy, AM radio flavored Whitney.  Their debut album, "Light Upon the Lake," out on Secretly Canadian, feels like some obscure, private press record from the 70's that you somehow stumbled across at a garage sale or used book store.  You can practically see the dust rising off of it.  Listen to "Red Moon" below, a short and wonderful trumpet-led instrumental, and an album highlight.

Cullen Omori

Former Smith Westerns front man Cullen Omori is set to release his solo debut "New Misery" next week on Sub Pop, and just in time for me to catch him perform during SXSW too.  The record finds him traversing in synthy dreampop sounds and 80's leaning homages.  Listen to "Synthetic Romance" below.

Smith Westerns - Varsity video

Chicago's Smith Westerns are prepping their latest album, "Soft Will," for release next month on Mom + Pop.  Jangly guitars and hints of glam rock abound, as per usual, to great and catchy effect.  Watch the colorful video for first single "Varsity" below and feel good about yourself.