5 Local Bands Bringing Back the Two-Minute Pop Song

There was once a time when two-minute pop songs ruled the American airwaves.

Much of what you heard on the radio mid-century were supremely catchy tunes like Elvis’ “That’s All Right” (1:56) or “Don’t Be Cruel” (2:01); The Beatles’ “Love Me Do” (2:20) or “Can’t Buy Me Love” (2:11); or Patsy Kline’s “Walkin’ After Midnight” (1:59) or “Back in Baby’s Arms” (2:03).

The tradition, though, is experiencing a resurgence both nationally and locally – from bands like Thunderbitch, the solo side project from the Alabama Shakes frontwoman, Brittany Howard, to many Seattle musicians who are carrying on the two-minute torch. To highlight this movement, here are five local bands bringing back the quick, get-in-get-out, pop hits.

La Luz – I Wanna Be Alone (With You) (2:16): This sage four-piece wants what they want and gives it to their audience each time they ask. While La Luz is on their world tour in support of their new Ty Segall-produced record, Weirdo Shrine, they leave behind their elegant music to keep us company.

Tacocat – Crimson Wave (2:05): Delightfully cheeky, Tacocat is an American treasure. They’re role models for ladies young and old. If I had a daughter, I’d hope she would listen to Tacocat – especially this track – though I’m fairly confident she would without any prompting from me.

Wimps – Take It As It Comes (1:48): This catchy punk trio embodies the black jeans-wearing, sardonic stardom of Seattle’s pavement rock. They’re self-effacing and powerful all at once – a lot like Oscar The Grouch, which, it would happen, is the Sesame Street character I’d associate with the band if asked. So, thanks for asking!

Childbirth – Will You Be My Mom (1:42): After hearing this track the first time, I couldn’t stop singing its refrain. Childbirth is a fabulous mix of humor, power and rock-and-roll excellence, masters of the immediate pop track. Their debut record, It’s a Girl, is 10-track, 17-minute priceless bit of Seattle charm.

Shelby Earl – The Artist (2:14): Her voice blooms on each track she produces and on this specific song, Earl has created a tongue-in-cheek love song for the self-centered artist – the type we all know, the type to show affection whenever he wants, whenever it will benefit. But the message here is balled up into a pleasantly hip-swinging ballad (performed live on KEXP).