Real Estate

The debut release by this New Jersey-based quartet is filled with dreamy, drowsy pop that settles in easily. These 10 songs have a vaguely familiar ‘60s West Coast pop feel to them, and the vibe is backed up by multiple lyrical references to the beach along with sunny harmonies and a classic warbled surf guitar sound. The production is shimmering and hazy with ample reverb and subtle psychedelic touches highlighting the interplay between the guitars and wrapping the barely audible vocals in a warm glow. Chiming guitar figures propel the catchier numbers like “Beach Comber,” “Fake Blues,” and “Green River” while “Suburban Dogs” and “Suburban Beverage” lope along lazily. There’s also a pair of well-placed, bright instrumentals (“Atlantic City,” “Let’s Rock the Beach”) that help tie it all together. Overall, the album is a laidback affair that keeps its head above the waves thanks to some infectious melodies. A charming first effort from a band to watch.

After several excellent singles, New Jersey's Real Estate deliver on their full-length debut with a rich collection of evocative and haunting songs.

A selection of song titles from Real Estate’s self-titled debut: “Beach Comber,” “Atlantic City,” “Let’s Rock The Beach.” The seashore motif may be having a cultural moment, at least among the Brooklyn DIY scene in which the band cut its teeth. (See also acts like Boogie Boarder and Beach Fossils, not to mention…

AllMusic provides comprehensive music info including reviews and biographies. Get recommendations for new music to listen to, stream or own.

In today's culture, the blogosphere moves with such spitting tenacity, and wields such a ruly force over independent music, that once-loved darlings of the...