I recall the moment I first heard Letting Up Despite Great Faults‘ 2009 self-titled full-length debut. I’d been playing tracks from their 2006 EP Movement on KUT, but their album is what solidified my addiction. It’s the same reason they remain one of my favorite bands today, and why I’m all ga-ga over last year’s release, Untogether. If ever there were slightly moodier sides to dream pop or shoegaze, Letting Up would rule that realm. Not that those styles are exclusively all indie-perky or mellow, but Letting Up tends to bring a more provocative, introspective air to the bliss-outs and shades of twilight.
For founding member Mike Lee, Letting Up began as a sort of catharsis through songwriting, which probably explains fans’ emotional connection to the music. Then with Untogether, there’s an unexpected and rather irresistible balance of catchy beat-pounding electronica and a sense of brooding that would make New Order and The Jesus & Mary Chain proud. It’s danceable with dark clouds looming. My kind of moves.
Letting Up Despite Great Faults have a show tonight at Frank, 407 Colorado St. The bill includes sets by synth-punk gloom-wonders Borrisokane and quirk-ified jangle-popsters Shortwave Party. Doors open at 9 p.m. This is gonna be a great Friday. Recommended.
