The 1900s: Plume Delivery EP (Parasol)
release: May 30, 2006
styles: Indie Pop, Chamber Pop, Neo-Psychedelia
similar: Camera Obscura, Essex Green, Ladybug Transistor
rating: ***

The time period of the 1900s is so in the past. We are so in the future now, being 2006 and all. The Chicago band the 1900s is one Harpsichord in the past and a horn or two in the present. They're in the future too, as this debut EP comes out May 30. The six members apply enough Mamas and Papas-style vocals and Farfisa and Hammond organ to avoid being called a Belle and Sebastian clone, while immersing themselves in the edgier side of '60s sunshine rock long enough to dismiss one of the vocalists for replicating the calming voice of Cat Power's Chan Marshall. -Kenyon