The Reivers

Originally known as Zeitgeist, The Reivers were a band that should have received more attention outside of their home-state of Texas. I heard "Freight Train Rain" through the Cloudberry Cake Proselytism blog, and later decided to purchase Saturday, the album that followed what many consider to be their masterpiece: Translate Slowly. The latter is available through iTunes along with Pop Beloved, the group's final album. I honestly found nothing worth liking on Pop Beloved, but Translate Slowly is excellent and really must be heard to be believed.

As for Saturday, that one is well-worth buying and can be bought online for a reasonable price. "Secretariat," "Baby," and "Once in a While" are just a few of the CD's many highlights. Lead singer John Croslin has a very unique voice, although comparisons to Luna's Dean Wareham and John Flansburgh of They Might Be Giants are justifiable. Background vocal harmonies by Kim Longacre add a beautiful touch to many of the group's songs. If you've never delved into the group's catalogue, I highly recommend it. End of the Day is the album that followed Saturday, and although I haven't looked into it yet, it's definitely on the to-do list.

The Moths

I found this one very early in the morning, and can still hardly believe my ears. Much of The Moths' discography is available on iTunes, and from what I understand the group has been going strong since 1982. One comment on an iTunes page likens the bands' sound to that of The Doors mixed with The Smiths, which I would call a fair assessment. I'd add The Bats to the list of comparisons, especially when I hear some of the songs' deliciously jangly guitars. The Moths' band members tell so much more on their website. It's well worth visiting, and has a number of audio samples. As for the song "Bubbles In the Water," you need to download that one immediately.