Open Close (Coke Bottle Clear Vinyl) (Indies)

Sam Prekop's latest offering, "Open Close," is like a breath of fresh air on a sticky, humid day. The indie stalwart brings his signature blend of dreamy, electro-pop to the table, serving up a collection of tracks that are as catchy as they are thought-provoking.

Opening with the title track, Prekop sets the tone for the album with swirling synths and ethereal vocals that draw the listener in from the first note. The production on this record is top-notch, with every detail meticulously crafted to create a sonic landscape that is both familiar and otherworldly.

Standout tracks include "Summer Places," a blissed-out anthem that begs to be played at sunset on a beach somewhere, and "Circle Line," a mesmerizing journey through time and space that showcases Prekop's talent for crafting intricate, layered soundscapes.

But it's not all sunshine and rainbows on "Open Close." Prekop isn't afraid to delve into darker themes, as evidenced by the haunting "Any Day" and the introspective "Weather Vane." These tracks add depth and complexity to an already rich tapestry of sound, making for a truly immersive listening experience.

In conclusion, "Open Close" is a triumph for Sam Prekop, showcasing his ability to weave together elements of pop, electronic, and avant-garde music into a cohesive and compelling whole. This is an album that demands repeat listens, revealing new layers and nuances with each spin. Don't sleep on this one, folks - it's a masterpiece in the making.