Tapes ’N Tapes lead vocalist Josh Grier possesses a buoyant, elastic delivery that coils itself around whatever emotion a given song calls for. Cradled under mellow, precise chords reminiscent of Vampire Weekend, this formula breeds catchy and memorable tunes on the band's new 12-track collection. Heartfelt cuts such as "One in the World" and "Mighty Long" convey a summery warmth so longed for at this time of year.

On Outside, the first self-produced release from the Minneapolis-based indie-rock quartet since ’06 debut The Loon, punk and subtle melancholy are at the forefront of a long list of influences. The explosive lead single "Freak Out" shows just how far their sound has come after seven years of touring and recording together. Credit must be given to Peter Katis, known for his work with Interpol and the National, whose mixing talents helped make Tapes ’N Tapes most ambitious album to date an unrelenting success.

Tapes ’N Tapes will bring the Outside tour to Casbah in March.

• Album: Outside (2011)
• Artist: Tapes 'N Tapes
• Label: Ibid Records
• Songs: (1) Badaboom (2) SWM (3) One in the World (4) Nightfall (5) Desert Plane (6) Outro (7) Freak Out (8) The Saddest of All Keys (9) Hidee Ho (10) People You Know (11) On and On (12) Mighty Long