Ballet, The - Daddy Issues (FROSTED CLEAR VINYL) (Vinyl) | Mint (M) Mint (M)

The amiable embrace of ambivalence distinguishes Greg Goldberg and Craig Willse’s output as the Ballet from the work of their funny musical uncles, like the Magnetic Fields’ implacably ironic Stephin Merritt, the Hidden Cameras’ riot auteur Joel Gibb, even fairy godfathers Pet Shop Boys.” Pitchfork [7.6] // "Big, confident pop songs that fizz with melody" Music OMH [4/5] // Formed in 2005 by Greg Goldberg and Craig Willse, The Ballet marry wry poeticism with pop romanticism and a queer DIY ethos to create literate, infectious pop gems. The band self-released their first two albums: Mattachine! (2006) and Bear Life (2009). These records caught the attention of indie-label-legends Fortuna Pop!, who released their third album, I Blame Society, in 2013. After FortunaPop! closed shop, The Ballet partnered with Fika Recordings, who released their 4th album, the critically acclaimed Matchy Matchy, in 2019. The Ballet have been joined by a few other musicians over the years including Ginger Brooks Takahashi and Michael O'Neill, who left in 2007 to join JD Sampson in MEN, as well as guest appearances on previous albums from Linton of The Aislers Set, Ramesh from Voxtrot, Scott Matthew, and Kaki King. In addition to citing Stephin Merritt as a formative influence, Goldberg—who writes and home-records all of the band’s songs—draws from an array of pop artists and periods; from 60’s bubblegum to 80’s synthpop and 90’s indiepop,. Goldberg gravitates towards upbeat tempos, major keys, and basic chords, using these restrictions to craft simple, catchy melodies while also layering instruments in a way that keeps the ear engaged and rewards repeat listening. The relatively light and smooth sound of Daddy Issues sets the tone for Goldberg’s unorthodox approach to his subject matter.

• Media Condition: Mint (M)
• Sleeve Condition: Mint (M)
• Format Detail: LP Frosted Clear Vinyl
• Format: Vinyl
• Label: Fika Recordings
• Catalog Number: LP-FIKA-095C