Diode 2 LP
If you’re still riding high on the eggy synth punk wave, check out L.A.-based DIODE. Wobbly synths tangle and arpeggiate into warped pop experiments with vocals that remind me of C.C.T.V. While many bands of this ilk tend to include a keyboard line over garage punk, DIODE has a distinct post-punk skeleton, and they aren’t afraid to venture down a dissonant path for a measure or two. Right in the middle lies “Card Dealer,” a beautiful, heart-tugging pop song with Kim Gordon-style vocals and a buzzing hook that burrows deep. Killer song and great record overall.