Japandroids

Japandroids named their 2009 debut LP Post-Nothing, but the record’s black and white cover and nihilistic name can’t hide just how Technicolor and catchy every track on it is. The band’s 21st-century garage rock sounds a lot like 20th-century garage rock: It sticks to the same themes (getting in trouble, girls, getting in trouble with girls), and maintains the same ability to transcend analysis and lodge itself in your ear via charm and nostalgia. The band’s new sophomore album, Celebration Rock, is a strong, lively set of supremely catchy songs lyrically focused on similar concerns as before, as well as the fleeting nature of the band’s newfound acclaim.

Updated 06/15/2012