Mathew Carlson and the Pantones – Memory is All (Phonophore)

What’s not to like? We have great melodies, smart lyrics, quirky melodies, and more than a passing resemblance to the Moutain Goats’ John Darnielle’s songwriting and vocal style? This Grand Ledge, Michigan band embraces their Midwestern roots while looking outward to a much bigger world. Tracks like “Olympia” (mp3) and “Paris, Ireland & Stockholm” are musical road stories told as much through melody as words.

Musically, the band shares space with all your favorite bands: Wilco, Beck (Mutations and Sea Change), the Radar Brothers, and even Johnny Marr. Do yourself a favor and check out this band you’ve likely never heard of.

More MP3s are available.