Adam Green & Binki Shapiro

For most indie-pop fans, the name Adam Green might not ring any bells initially, until the reminder: “You know, the guy from The Moldy Peaches.” And where The Moldy Peaches were simply a lo-fi good time, Green the solo artist is a more refined good time. His lyricism is irreverently poetic, capable of creating a range of moods, while the songwriting itself quite often achieves perfection with its brevity. Green’s latest work with sultry songstress Binki Shapiro (formerly of Little Joy) only enhances the above praise, as the two channel a duet approach fantastically reminiscent of Lee Hazelwood and Nancy Sinatra. Their 10-song, self-titled effort evokes both romantic playfulness and longing, drawing in listeners with a pair of voices that seem bonded by natural adhesive. “Pity Love” is the album’s definitive track, a flawless cut of bouncy, melancholy pop that hooks you with the verse: “My heart is everywhere, clapping out like thunder/ everybody, everybody’s cheating on each other.” The album’s succinctness—clocking in at 28 minutes total—is one of its biggest strengths; every brief gem, from “Just To Make Me Feel Good” to “Pleasantries,” leaves you wanting even more.