“Cars of Our Youth” is a striking new track from Former Ruins, resembling a cross of The National and The War on Drugs. The project, an alias of East Coast transplant Levi Sikes, is based in Muncie, IN. The murmuring vocals lend a captivating feel, reminiscent of Matt Berninger’s signature baritone. The accompanying guitar work exudes a hypnotic, highway-bound feel — which is where The War on Drugs comparison arises (especially at 02:40). The track’s meshing of garage-rock with Springsteen-friendly comparisons like these results in a very convincing aesthetic. A follow-up single is nearing completion, which I’m definitely looking forward to.
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“Cars of Our Youth” and other memorable tracks from this month can also be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Best of July 2019’ Spotify playlist.
