Following the release of their self-titled EP with their debut full-length Alight of Night, Brooklyn-based mood rockers Crystal Stilts create haunting pop songs that are unpretentious and pure. Garnering comparisons to Jesus & Mary Chain and the Velvet Underground, they are master recyclers of vintage rock, yet their own take on things is simple, novel, and downright awesome.  Alight of Night is the kind of album you can play throughout, each song being, if not great, at least listenable.  

Plenty of mentions have been made of frontman Brad Hargett’s ambiguous (read: barely intelligible) vocals. True, his vocal style is weary and unruffled and his delivery is nonchalant, yet this is part of the stylish charm, the lackadaisical confidence that says: “We don’t aim to impress. We aim..” Well, maybe there is no aim to speak of, except for rockin’ out in their Brooklyn garage, creating genuine, authentic post-punk pop (or whatever label justifies this masterful collection), and being completely unassuming about it all.

“Crystal Stilts”, “The Dazzled”, “Shattered Shine” from Alight of Night, as well as “Crippled Croon” and “Converging in The Quiet” off their self-titled EP are guaranteed pleasers.  You can listen to track samples here.

Apparently, the story goes that after one of their early shows, The Clean vocalist/drummer Hamish Kilgour helped the Crystal Stilts out after being smitten by their live performance. And Vivian Girls former member Frankie Rose chose to focus her energies on being a drummer for Crystal Stilts, having been inspired by their songs.  

Alight of Night was released on the Slumberland label - a suitable name for a record label that supports the Crystal Stilts’ languid, hypnotic jangling pop-rock songs that magnetically hold your attention and are sure to be a classic.

Crystal Stilts open for Swedish punkers Love Is All @ Sala Rossa on Wed, Dec 10th.  If you’re into music, you won’t be disappointed!

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