Pick Your Poison: Monday 6-30-14

As you’re hopefully well aware, The New Pornographers will be back with a new album this fall for all of us to listen to and enjoy. Their particular brand of bouncy, group-crafted indie pop has become something of a rarity these days, as I’m hard pressed to think of many bands in their sphere of similarity (though The Polyphonic Spree are kind of in the same arena). I’m not seeing a lot of press releases namedropping The New Pornos as either an influence or a “sounds like” reference. You could call it a testament to their unique ability to craft fun sing-alongs. Well, if you’re looking for more of that in your life, or maybe are just hoping to fill the gap while we wait for that new album, allow me to recommend the band Ages and Ages. The six piece from Portland released their second album Divisionary this past spring, and it’s packed with big hooks and hopeful messages. As the band was developing the record, there were a number of personal tragedies that occurred, so the aim was to craft songs that provided strength in tough times. That’s clearly evident by the supremely addictive gospel-inspired title track (and album closer) “Divisionary (Do the Right Thing),” which I’d wager is a strong contender for Song of the Year (so far). That alone is worth checking out, even if you don’t give the full album a try. It also sets the stage for Ages and Ages’ live show, because you just know that there’s going to be a full crowd sing-along complete with rhythmic clapping and maybe even some harmonizing. I’m excited to experience it when the band comes to Chicago for a show at Schubas on Wednesday, July 16th. It’s a 21+ show, starts at 9 pm, and tickets are $12. Come on out and have some mid-week summer fun! Okay, let’s get into this Monday edition of Pick Your Poison, which is also a bit of summer fun. Great tracks in this set come from The Amends, Casey Jack, Elephant Stone, Grimes, Niagara and Shy Boys. In the Soundcloud section after the jump, stream songs from Cloud Boat, Freddie Gibbs, Young Thug & A$AP Ferg, Imogen Heap, Painted Zeros and more.