The Brunettes "Structure & Cosmetics" (22.8 MB) from Structure & Cosmetics High Noon Saloon Madison, WI September 25, 2007

Emily and I first heard of the Brunettes when we went to see the Shins in Milwaukee about two and a half years ago. They were completely new to us, and we were surprised to see an oversized New Zealand indie pop band as the only opener -- I believe they may have had even a couple more people than the six they have on their current tour. From start to finish, they blew us away -- I immediately regretted having not brought my camera to the show -- and they absolutely stole the show from the mostly lifeless Shins.

We weren't the only ones, as it turned out. Having impressed audiences all over the country, they landed a deal with Sub Pop to distribute their then-current second album in the US, and to eventually release its follow-up. This is the title track to that follow-up effort, a slightly darker and fuller-sounding take than their first two albums, though it would just about have to be given the incredibly twee lightness of the Brunettes' sound.