The Matinees - Make The Leap (Snowstorm Music) San Francisco’s Bay Area is renowned for some great indie pop harmonizing, and this duo continue the tradition in fine style. Like the best 90’s US indie (think The Spinanes circa Strand with less introspection, and Throwing Muses at any time, but with far less clamor) this duo conjure up some really superb, if occasionally slightly off kilter, music that has a way of charming you, just as those two bands did back then. It’s as if they have made this album for just you, and you alone. Still, best be on your guard though, as these occasionally rather ‘twisted’ melodies can make it a bit harder to enjoy unless you are willing to give them your full attention. Commit straight-aways, or leave alone until you have the time to fully appreciate it is my advice. The album ranges from songs coming from the aforementioned cult indie groove (and miss-groove) direction, which is most of these 11 tracks, but there is also a cracking alt. country instrumental (“Mission Beach”), a Bossa Nova beat on the superbly titled “Bees In Your Head, Wool In Mine”, and the rather dark closer, “Stay Gold”, a slow burning but very tasty finale. This track concludes a fine sophomore album, and bodes well for what might just come next. www.myspace.com/matinees Kev A. Next