Hungry Pines - Golden You (Hill City) Since the North American indie explosion of a year ago has been somewhat quiet of late, it is good to know that a few fragments still remain. Hungry Pines self-released, self-produced debut comes straight out of that scene. Indeed, Irene Barber’s strong vocals come across like a mix of Jenny Lewis, Emily Haines and Karen O (with a dash of Kate Bush), arguably the three leading ladies in American indie today. Barber’s voice echoes over strong and heavy soundscapes, which at times crash and throb like it’s the end of the world. The pop hooks and choruses may not be apparent at first but they are there waiting to be discovered such as in the punky “Me And The City”, whilst “Fur Pumps” is the guilty sound of rolling in home at an abnormally late hour. It is clear that Golden You is not for everyone’s taste but those that persevere will be amply rewarded. www.thehungrypines.com Michael B. Next