Monoganon - F A M I L Y (2013)

The music released on Lost Map, at least in the beginning, was often small-scale and domestic, but Monoganon’s second album (and first for Lost Map) is a different beast, with its wide-open grooves and churning guitars. The Scottish quartet (featuring Lost Map alumnus Susan Bear on bass) deal in pain, yes, but also catharsis. For every dour chord change there’s a sunny melody; for every post-rock cut, there’s a chugging, art rock banger.

“Quick Crescent Moon” is one highlight. It’s a Neil Young-esque slice of gothic Americana with muffled drums, bluesy guitar, and country music harmonies. “Best Pals” sounds like what The Modern Lovers might have come up with if they’d listened to more emo and were signed to Postcard Records. F A M I L Y features an eclectic mixture that very much set the tone for the genre-hopping verve of Lost Map’s catalog.

Tracklist:
1.01 - Monoganon - Quick Crescent Moon (4:02)
1.02 - Monoganon - Wasted Teens (2:31)
1.03 - Monoganon - Easterhouse (4:55)
1.04 - Monoganon - Best Pals (2:45)
1.05 - Monoganon - Arc of the Tuna Fish (5:59)
1.06 - Monoganon - All You Need to Know Is Now (4:39)
1.07 - Monoganon - Car Coming Home (5:08)
1.08 - Monoganon - Bean a Daughter (5:27)
1.09 - Monoganon - Ivory and Tusk (5:11)