I just discovered a new band called War Tapes. They recently released their first full length album titled The Continental Divide under the Sarathan Records label.

Neil Popkin's vocals are firm but melodic. His sister, Becca, adds an ethereal and almost shoe gaze quality. Unlike a lot of alternative bands, they can actually sing so the need for the "screamo" effects is obviated.

They define their music to be "heart-quaking doom pop" but I think that's too harsh a description. The band is more in line with classic post-punk bands like Joy Division. Yes, their lyrics are somewhat pensive, but they're nowhere near the level of bleakness of gothic or death metal. Many of their songs deal with heartbreak and difficult relationships. The lyrics are laden with sentiments of being lost and hurt, emotions to which most can relate, and this makes their music approachable to the masses.