"They say God is in the details"; that's the introductory line of L.A.-based indie/rock treasure Harriet's new music video for "Inheritance," and it also reflects the group's whole M.O.

It's quite exhilarating to find artists who really give a shit these days, so consider this writer tickled pink. I've been following Harriet—led by Alex Casnoff (formerly of Dawes)—since the titillating "I Slept With All Your Mothers," so one could imagine my excitement last week, when they finally dropped their first full-length album—a concept I've been salivating over for some time now.

I like to think that American Appetite’s gestation period was so lengthy because of the extreme attention to detail and perhaps a slightly neurotic (yet much appreciated) thirst for perfection, at least perfection in the terms of getting their exact message across. That being said, the vibe generated from a straight listen-through is quite deceptive, considering that feelings of soothing, sunset-like comfort are being provided by stories riddled with anxiety.

The 12-track set—released via Harvest—takes listeners on a mathematical, multi-layered journey, tugging on your heartstrings with songs like “American Appetite” and "Burbank" and kicking your inhibitions to the curb with playful jams like “Ten Steps.” There’s an unavoidable dynamic quality to the overall sound, a clear reflection of deep-seated passion.

Touches of the ‘80s melt with an overall modern sensibility in a seemingly effortless fashion on this flavorful and truly exciting work. And since I find no discomfort in saying that Harriet has delivered my favorite album of 2016 so far, click here to stream it on Spotify. Bon appétit.

xx,
Samantha Hissong