El Ten Eleven

It generally takes more than two people to create bloated, pretentious post-rock, so L.A.’s El Ten Eleven is wise to remain a duo. Bassist-guitarist Kristian Dunn and drummer Tim Fogarty indulge in plenty of effects and loops to fill out their sound with glittering layers, but always keep their instrumentals focused on bright pulses and punchy hooks. ETE tracks rarely push past the five-minute mark, and turn the whole concept of lofty instrumental song titles on its head with such songs as “I Like Van Halen Because My Sister Says They Are Cool.” The duo funded the release of its latest record, 2010’s It’s Still Like A Secret, by appealing directly to fans for donations—$100 earned patrons an autographed copy and the chance to punch Fogarty in the face. 

Updated 04/20/2011