Some say music is cyclical, that we just rehash genres and eras from 15-25 odd years back, with little progression. Those with a keener eye ear, however, will point out that the notable artists and bands from each go-around aren't merely remaking what was then made, rather they use what worked well in the past as a step towards something new, often incorporating select bits and pieces of various other genres, musical "scenes," and eras. Basically, good music is often most like a Katamari Damacy ball.

With that in mind, we'd like to introduce California Wives. The Chicago-based four-piece are a great example of the retro-sourced forward-thinking type of music I'm talking about. Clearly drawing influence many from 80s-era new wave, alt rock, synth rock and post-punk superpowers like New Order and The Cure, California Wives also infuses elements of early 90s shoegaze acts and modern indie rock. The result is supremely easy on the ears, while maintaining the feel of a rock outfit (something most modern synth-driven acts lose).

The band is set to self-release their new EP, titled Affair, in early September. Fans of 80s new wave and/or post-punk, 90s shoegaze, or 00s indie pop (Just about everyone in the classroom should hopefully be raising their hands at this point), you're definitely going to want to keep your eyes on these guys.