“I don’t like it, but the long-play album format is probably dead,” says Mates of State drummer and vocalist Jason Hammel. “Now we just want the hits. Don’t bother me with filler; get me your best songs straightaway.” After 15 years together in love and music, he and bandmate Kori Gardner (keys, vocals) certainly know how to whip up ultra-distilled indie-pop without issue. Accordingly, the duo’s new EP, You’re Going to Make It, deploys high energy choruses, theatrical keys, retro-synth and an emotional intensity traditionally reserved for upstream swimmers in youth’s hormonal flood. Indie twin sisters Good Graeff open the upbeat couple’s show at The Mothlight on Tuesday, July 7, at 9:30 p.m. $13/$15. themothlight.com. Photo by Shervin Lainez
Smart bets: Mates of State
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