Wow, what happened to Sub Pop? Ages ago Grunge made this label name big. After having survived a long dry spell (approx. 10 years?) this label is now back with first-class music, fancy sounds and a modern spirit that almost worries to death. They feature hot and hip acts such as The Thermals and Rogue Wave, psychedelic and instrumental stuff a la Kinski, old heroes such as Sleater Kinney, plus new, fresh and thrilling acts like The Shins and The Fruit Bats, a great cocktail of music and not, as probably expected, a piteous conventionalism on old Grunge days.

Anyway, to say it beforehand: WOLF PARADE is just about the limit too, a scoop, outacting all of their idols such as hip The Arcade Fire and reviewer’s dears Modest Mouse, with their debut album Apologies To The Queen Mary that displays a frightening coolness, at the same time leering at the orphaned throne of this genre. On this record WOLF PARADE blend Indie rock with epic sound crushers, frazzle-like collages, rumbling Steve Albini drums and many, many small details that one can discover like cute but hidden keyboard melodies, layered singing … etc. … and many more. David Bowie would have been jealous about. If there is anything one might rub against, than the singing one probably needs to get used to it and that reminds a little of Isaak Brooks (Modest Mouse), a bit out of tune and with a wailing approach. But, if that is something to prevent you from listening to such great music, drop dead!

Apologies To The Queen Mary is a thrilling album – thanks Buddha – not too smooth produced, perfectly made for long evenings or to show off in front of oh so hip friends, hihihi. Although quiet at times this album is party compatible and well suiting to your car hi-fi to cut a fine figure ;) Nothing more to say … Those, who missed innovation last years, grab you a copy of Apologies To The Queen Mary, take a risk and enjoy great work. 10 points!