You know it's all in your head

In case you haven't been on turntable.fm much lately, Generationals released a new LP last March, Actor-Caster, that has gradually become a huge indie favorite. Slightly less lo-fi than their debut of 2009, the album demonstrates that these New Orleans kids have developed their style while maintaining their unique sound. The old school beach rock vibe is definitely still prevalent, but the hooks are more sophisticated and the instrumentation is more... well, it's just more. Each new track has its own flavor, and they experimented with different rhythms and production styles to create something truly interesting and remarkable. The entire songlist warrants a listen from beginning to end (except maybe "Yours Forever"; that track is really annoying and out of place with the rest of the album), and I had a very difficult time choosing which two to give you, but start with these and then promise me you will check out the rest.

Generationals - I Promise by Sound Thinking

Generationals - Black and White by Sound Thinking

It's such a miracle how life comes back around again

Today's emerging act, Kisses, falls into the "music you probably missed" category, since their LP Heart of the Nightlife came out back in Autumn 2010, but this charming L.A.-based duo definitely deserves your attention. Their dreamy, sun-drenched lo-fi rock is slightly reminiscent of the style pioneered by the Whitest Boy Alive, but with a very unique pop tinge to it. Despite the album title, I would recommend enjoying these Kisses while relaxing poolside with a mojito on a warm summer day. Hopefully this will distract you from the impending snowstorm around the corner this weekend:

Midnight Lover by Kisses

(By the way, if you dig that track you can download it for free courtesy of the band by clicking the little arrow on the right side of the bar there.)

Let me sink, you're hell to swim

Being a recent California expatriate myself, I generally roll my eyes at bands that sing nostalgic songs about the Golden State and its shores, but I decided to give these guys a chance and I recommend you do the same.

Dirty Gold is a three-piece "beach-wave" group of San Diego boys who just graduated high school this past June. After forming during the fall of their senior year, they signed with indie label Autumn Tone Records (home of Fleet Floxes' J. Tillman) and released the lovely ROAR EP this April. Clearly inspired by 60s beach pop, Dirty Gold takes the warm and sunny sounds of Afro-beats and xylophones and creates an inspired and charming sound that would have Brian Wilson smiling and tapping his toes. Another perfect album to play in these dwindling days of summer, the small offering of laid-back tracks promises great work from these new beach boys. Grab your wayfarers and relax:

California Sunrise - Dirty Gold by mimoore

Dirty Gold - Sea Hare by lamusicafresca