Kindest Lines

Kindest Lines are a trio from New Orleans, LA that merge '90s dream pop with '00s electronic. If this description sounds a bit reductionist, it's because this is exactly how Covered in Dust, their debut LP, strives to come off. Over 11 even-tempered, digitally hazy tracks, Kindest Lines' ambition begins and ends with "sounding" like a pop/electro hybrid. Produced by Alfredo Nogueira and Josh Eustis of Telefon Tel Aviv, Covered in Dust is, however, a feat in hi-/lo-fidelity, as "Running into Next Year" and "Prom Song" demonstrate how texture and delivery can create absolute atmosphere. From the stout guitar of aptly titled opener "Hazy Haze" to the gaunt beats and synth squeal of closer "Colors Treasured," Covered in Dust turns from shoegaze to jazz hands as each song passes. Vocalist Brittany Terry may be playing the dead-pan Ladytron thing too close-to-the-cuff and it may take too many listens to find the meat of each song, but at least Kindest Lines have a good idea of where they're going.