Album Review: Autumn August by Young Scum
If you’re into that sweet spot where indie rock meets jangle pop, Autumn August by Young Scum is a record that might just stick to your brain like gum on a hot day. Released back in 2015, this little gem from the US feels like catching up with an old friend who’s got great taste in music but doesn’t take themselves too seriously.
The album’s got a DIY vibe running through it—no big label here, just good ol’ passion and some solid teamwork. You’ve got Chris Smith on vocals, Ben Medcalf pulling triple duty on guitar, recording, and mixing, and the rhythm section holding it down with Jason Pirault on bass and Taylor Haag on drums. Philip Eberhart mastered it, so yeah, these guys weren’t messing around when they put this thing together.
Now, let’s talk tracks. First up, “Met You At A Party.” It’s one of those songs that sneaks up on you. The melody has this laid-back charm, like the soundtrack to a lazy afternoon spent people-watching at a park. But what really sticks? The lyrics. They’re simple yet kinda relatable, like remembering someone you met once and wondering if they remember you too. It’s not overly complicated, but sometimes the best stuff isn’t.
Then there’s “Blue Slurpee,” which feels like driving down a sun-drenched highway with the windows down. There’s something about the guitar work here—it’s all bright and jangly, giving off serious summer vibes even though the title screams convenience store snack. It’s catchy without trying too hard, the kind of tune that makes you nod along before you even realize it.
One thing I noticed about Autumn August is how it doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel. Instead, it polishes the wheel until it gleams. Tracks like “Halifax” and the title track bring their own flavors, but nothing feels forced or out of place. This album knows exactly what it wants to be—a cozy mixtape for anyone who digs indie rock with heart.
Here’s the kicker, though. Listening to this album feels like finding a hidden playlist online. Like, wait, why didn’t more people tell me about this sooner? Maybe it’s because it flew under the radar, being self-released and all. Or maybe it’s meant to feel like a secret you stumbled upon yourself. Either way, it’s worth your time.
So yeah, give Autumn August a spin if you’re in the mood for something low-key awesome. And hey, next time you grab a Blue Slurpee, crank this album loud enough so the slurping sounds sync up perfectly. Coincidence? Probably. But wouldn’t that be cool?
