Built by Snow

Mega

Built by Snow’s nerdy novelty appears easy to write off, the electro-popsters wearing their brains on their sleeves in a “Giant Robot Attack” and the “Science of Love.” Fortunately, the local quartet’s quirk is cut with an emotional sincerity that’s not only endearing but at times surprisingly apt, as with the cleverly employed metaphor of “Algometric Touch.” With keys and guitars caught in a swirl of fuzz and frantic pace (nine songs clocking just over 20 minutes), BBS’ debut LP bites like a geekier Weezer. “Implode Alright” and “Invaders” successfully integrate bleeps and samples, “A-Beta” bursts like the hand-clapped pop of fellow locals Belaire, and “All the Weird Kids Know” even unloads a Pac-Man simile in Devo-esque fashion. The band members’ heads may be stuck in the video-game glow, but Built by Snow can’t hide its nostalgic, mixtape heart buried beneath an overstimulated world. (CD release: Saturday, Jan. 24, Club de Ville.)

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This article appears in January 23 • 2009.

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Doug Freeman has been writing for the Austin Chronicle since 2007, covering the arts and music scene in the city. He is originally from Virginia and earned his Masters Degree from the University of Texas. He is also co-editor of The Austin Chronicle Music Anthology, published by UT Press.