Quickdraw: The National, Steady Holiday, Screaming Females, MSPAINT, Miss Grit, El Ten Eleven

Enjoy.

The National -Tropical Morning News

Frankly, after the release of I Am Easy To Find and Matt Berninger’s solo album, it felt a little like the National were getting ready to call it quits, which would have been a big bummer. I was encouraged by the band’s touring last year though, and now with the announcement of a new album (and a great first single to go with it), I’m feeling pretty confident they’ll be around for a good while longer. First Two Pages Of Frankenstein will be out April 28.

Steady Holiday – The Balance

“Time didn’t matter a lifetime ago.”

This is a great opening line off what’s a rather easy-on-the-ears number from Steady Holiday. The indie pop act will release Newfound Oxygen on February 17.

Screaming Females – Brass Bell

I did a solid four (or maybe even five) second fist pump when the press release for Screaming Females’ new album, Desire Pathway (out February 17), made its way to me. Jump on this soaring single now. By the way, if you’re in Austin, they’re playing the Ballroom on April 3.

MSPAINT – Delete It (Featuring Militarie Gun)

I came across versatile rockers MSPAINT via this recent Stereogum piece and immediately jumped on their bandwagon. Count me as super excited for their upcoming album, Post-American (due out March 10).

Miss Grit – Lain (Phone Clone)

Miss Grit’s debut album, Follow The Cyborg, is set to be released on February 24. If you’re into textured, headphone-worthy sounds, then this act should definitely be on your radar.

El Ten Eleven – Not Even Almost

It was a bit rainy out as I was digging through my inbox, and you know, that’s just always the right vibe for anything from El Ten Eleven. This chill number is off the instrumental duo’s upcoming album, Valley Of Fire (due out February 10).