Album Review: Austin post punks The Stayres new record Duplex drops tomorrow
Austin post-punk power-pop trio The Stayres will release their new LP, Duplex, on February 14 via Flak Records. The new record builds upon the pop hooks and driving guitars of their 2023 self-titled debut, adding a brighter, janglier sound and more narrative-driven lyrics.
The members of The Stayres are all veterans of the Austin indie rock scene. Guitarist and singer Mike Nicolai has performed as a solo artist and with The Bremen Riot (a collaboration with Grand Champeen). Bassist Hunter Darby’s resume includes time with Austin power-pop legends The Wannabes, Cotton Mather and the Hickoids. Drummer Travis Garaffa has played with Will Courtney & the Wild Bunch and is currently a member of the Austin supergroup Jefferson Trout (featuring members of punk pioneers Pocket Fishermen, The Dicks, and Scratch Acid).
The Stayres Duplex, is a 10-track trip of indie freshness. It’s like going to a strawberry field to pick the freshest, most savory fruit. The album captures the feeling of indie music’s initial rise to prominence, a time when over-the-top ego driven Aqua Net hair bands all combusted and burned like a forgotten grilled cheese sandwich. Don’t get me wrong, I am still a fan of some of those spandex wearing hair-pop glam bands. This record has that energy but with substance only years of experience can bring.
Duplex opens up with “Skeeterhawk” which starts with a discombobulated voice effect that sticks the landing with a driven bass and straightforward beat. A classic indie riff then emerges, setting the stage for the rest of the album. Nicolai’s voice is a classic touch of pure indie power!
“Don’t Touch the Humans” is a bass-heavy track. Its catchy hook blends seamlessly with the darker vocal melody, showcasing Nicolai’s expanded vocal range during the bridge. “Love Is Blue” evokes Neil Young with its prominent distorted guitar, soaring vocals, and a memorable guitar solo.
“Captain Crazy” delves deep into indie rock territory, reminiscent of bands like Pavement. The track deftly uses a flanger effect, adding a perfect touch of texture. “Tundra” demonstrates the band’s musical versatility. Its introspective lyrics and heartfelt chorus create a dynamic and emotionally resonant track.
“The Duck” delivers a dose of heavy, distorted guitar, practically demanding to be played at maximum volume. While the track clocks in at 4 minutes and 28 seconds, its sheer energy transcends any concerns about the song going on too long. The listener ends up wanting more.
“Show and Tell” opens with a retro, 1950s-esque pop jingle before launching into a driving riff. The lyrics paint a vivid picture, with lines like, “My life is a monster movie… shot by a bad director,” offering a candid self-assessment.
“Letting Us Out” provides a brief but poignant interlude. The album’s softest track, it features poetic lyrics that evoke a sense of wistful contemplation: “How are we gonna handle all of the happiness… Who will shovel sunlight over all the pain?”
“The Spaniard” offers a distinct flavor, featuring doubled vocals set against a backdrop of massive, distorted guitars. The track breathes with distortion, creating a spacious and expansive feel. “Cora” closes the album, skillfully balancing instrumentation and vocals with a relaxed yet still energetic vibe. The song talks about a person named Cora, as someone that we may have in our lives that makes our lives complete. The track is a sweet tribute to a special relationship.
The album is a fantastic follow up to their 2023 self-titled release, and is one of my favorite Austin albums that has been released so far this year.
The Stayres will celebrate the release of “Duplex” with a show at The 13th Floor this Saturday, February 15. Yard Work and Total Diamonds will support. Doors open at 8 p.m., and music starts at 9 p.m.. They will also be playing at Waterloo Wednesday, February 19 at 5pm. Take a listen to three tracks from the new record below.
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