Mates of State

Re-Arrange Us (Barsuk)

You’ve got to have respect for a husband-and-wife team that tours the world with a preschooler and an infant in tow. Most co-parenting couples can’t even manage a trip to the grocery store without experiencing a total meltdown. And yet, here’s a couple that turns in a strong fifth LP. Kori Gardner (keys, vox) and Jason Hammel (drums, vox) keep their cheery, indie rock, boy-girl harmonies intact while simultaneously exorcising any relationship-related demons that may lurk in their Connecticut home. Particularly arresting are opener “Get Better” and “The Re-Arranger,” which manage to face uncomfortable truths while also achieving earworm status. “Blue and Gold Print” is nostalgic for a future past and achingly honest, the watermark of an act that’s matured both personally and professionally. (5:15pm, Austin Ventures stage.)

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This article appears in September 26 • 2008.

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