And I Hope You Love Me

Indie pop has been an ever-changing life form, possibly taking its first breath with the birth of the C86 cassette. UK twee pop, American alternative rock, punk music and anything that has lent itself to “outsider music” is a contributor to many of today’s top independent artists. But what do you actually think of when you hear the word “indie pop”? The term can mean anything from woodsy folk to blippy bloopy electro from Nebraska. Bands like The Lucksmiths, Neutral Milk Hotel and even one as recent as Rilo Kiley are bands that embody the “indie pop” sound: not too harsh, not too cute – but overall sappy and slacker-y enough to make you want to wear a scarf.

The outrageously named Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin is another band that should come to mind when dropping the “indie pop” bomb on eager listeners. Their latest release Fly By Wire is both sweet and dreamy, like living in a perpetual Honda commercial. “Harrison Ford” starts off with the most tender piano chords possible, leading into punchy/dancey drums, whispery vocals and twinkly guitars. What a fine way to pay homage to the greatest actor of all time.

Songs like “Lucky Young” and “Loretta” sound like what Zooey Deschanel probably sounds like in the morning. Right from the get go, the sun comes up, flowers starts blooming, birds are chirping, clothes automatically turn vintage and you’re suddenly in love. Sometimes simple pop chords and a couple “oohs” and “ahhs” can put you in the most incredible mood. The maudlin vibes are abundant in Fly By Wire. Fly By Wire doesn’t aspire to be the next great American indie record. It sounds like a bunch of dudes who have a good time playing hyper-emotional melodies to awkward-dancing adults, still trying to figure out life. There’s no harm in that at all. If someone still loves Boris Yelstin, then we can be sure this band can expect plenty of enthusiastic fanhugs in its lifetime.