Star 99 - Gaman (2025)

San Jose’s Hot Box house alumni—slash survivors—Star 99 have consistently charmed their way onto the wantlist with everything they’ve released so far. Their second album, Gaman, is no exception, particularly given how well the band has fine-tuned their sonic palette on this latest batch of songs. You want something sweet? Something sour? Something bittersweet, perhaps? You’ll find all of that here. And then there’s the irresistible umami of IWLYG, a punchy jangle-pop hit and just one of many standouts on the record.

This is the kind of alt-pop that indie punks will appreciate, and vice versa. Or as the band calls it: hard twee. Or, as I’d put it: mighty fine music, well worth your ears and money.