The Postelles's second album picks up the pace from their first release. (via Paste Magazine)

“Wait, are you sure this isn’t the Strokes’ new album?” Yes, we’re positive. However, you may think it is at first. One reason is because the guitarist form the Strokes, Albert Hammond Jr., produced their first album.  Obviously, his influence carried on into their current sound.

The Postelles have also been compared to the Kooks, Arcade Fire, and Kaiser Chiefs. The pop-rock sound all such bands produce sounds similar, and therefore are easily confused. The Postelles have also accompanied fun., Vampire Weekend, Kings of Leon, and the Kooks on tour, as well as played at major music festivals such as Bonnaroo and Lollapalooza. 

“And they’re not British?” Nope, they are from the Upper West Side, New York. The Postelles are comprised of lead singer Daniel Balk, guitarist David Dargahi, bassist John Speyer, and drummer Billy Cadden. 

Lead singer Daniel Balk (via newyorknoise.com)

“So you’re sure this isn’t an album from the 70s?” Yes, but the vibe is very retro, adding a unique touch to new record. Their sound even garnered them a nomination for an Independent Music Award. 

“Is the lead singer that guy from Girls?” Not quite, although Balk could be Charlie’s doppelgänger.

So once you’re done pondering those questions, you should take the time to listen to the album in its entirety. 

The album begins with a fitting track, “...And It Shook Me,” a pop song about the trials of love and how he can’t get the girl out of his head.  “Sweet Water” is a similar song that is, again, about every musician’s favorite topic—romance. 

To change it up a bit, “You Got Me Beat” has a bit more of a different sound, with heavier guitar and a moderate punk influence. On the flip side, “Parallel Love” is a more of a mellow, tragic ballad.

Another song is “Pretend It’s Love,” which is a duet with Alex Winston that sounds similar to the Kooks. With over 22,000 listens on Soundcloud, and the most infectious song of the album, the song proves to be an essential track. The best part of the song is that the singers play off each other, creating an adorable dialogue of sorts.

The other strong track is “Caught By the Surprise” because it is not only cleverly written, but also is poised to be a perfect summer tune for that summer fling. It describes how one goes into a romance without expecting seriousness, however the song takes a funny turn when he realizes that she actually has feelings for him. The music video is an adorable take on a seemingly young couple (by observance of their actions) in elderly bodies.

The sound becomes a bit repetitive after a while. “Running Red Lines” is a more rock influenced and a little reminiscent of Tom Petty. Dare I say, I even detect a little country fusion in the beat, and it is especially noticeable in the music video below.“You Know I Won’t” sounds like Best Coast or, in other words, even more summer jams. Nevertheless, the Postelles are the perfect band to get yourself and friends in a good mood for those warm, endless nights.

The Postelles play at the Bootleg Theater on May 21st and they will go on tour with Atlas Genius later this summer.   

ALSO SEE: Atlas Genius Maps Their Way To The Wiltern

Buy the album on iTunes or Amazon.

Read more of NT's album reviews here.

Reach Staff Reporter Jillian Morabito here.