Good Flying Birds and the Spirit of Scrappy Indie Pop

The Roots of Indie Pop

Indie pop has historically embodied a scrappy essence, characterized by gritty guitar fuzz and a sense of rawness that often prioritized passion over technical skill. This genre served as a punk alternative for those who felt uncomfortable donning studs, reflected in its amateurish artwork, straightforward lyrics, and underground cassette trading networks. The scene was shaped by early Rough Trade 7″s and bands like the Television Personalities, eschewing the polished sound of mainstream acts such as Fleetwood Mac.

Good Flying Birds: A Modern Echo

Good Flying Birds stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of indie pop. Like bands such as St. Louis’ Soup Activists and Chicago’s Answering Machine, they embrace the lo-fi aesthetic of four-track recordings, blurring the lines between egg punk and DIY pop. Originally known as Talulah God—an homage to Amelia Fletcher’s first band, Talulah Gosh—the group rebranded to Good Flying Birds, a nod to Guided by Voices. At the helm is Kellen Baker, who composed, performed, and recorded about 95 percent of their debut album, Talulah’s Tape, between 2020 and 2024.

A Dual Introduction

The release of Talulah’s Tape as a cassette in January serves as both an introduction to Good Flying Birds and a compilation of Baker’s most compelling ideas. This collection presents a diverse array of sounds and themes that reflect Baker’s eclectic musical journey.

Musical Influences and Sound

Good Flying Birds skillfully navigates the challenge of living up to the indie-pop classics, and they come impressively close. The opening track “I Will Find” features girl/boy harmonies that evoke the charm of a forgotten Heavenly hit. Susie Slaughter’s vocal contributions add a delightful layer to each track she graces, enhancing the band’s overall sound.

Capturing Emotion and Nostalgia

Tracks like “Fall Away” and “Eric’s Eyes” transport listeners back to the early days of the Radio Dept., characterized by their ramshackle drumming, muffled vocals, and a warm distortion that creates a nostalgic atmosphere. Even as the energy ramps up in songs like “Golfball” and the album closer “Last Straw,” which channel the vibes of the Wedding Present and Teenage Fanclub, Baker ensures that sweet, catchy melodies remain the focal point.

Conclusion

Good Flying Birds encapsulates the essence of scrappy indie pop, reminding us of the genre’s imperfect origins. With Talulah’s Tape, Kellen Baker and company honor the spirit of their predecessors while carving out their unique space in the modern musical landscape. Their work serves as a refreshing nod to the past, proving that the heart of indie pop remains vibrant and alive.

FAQs

What is the significance of Good Flying Birds’ name change?

The name change from Talulah God to Good Flying Birds reflects a homage to influential indie bands, with the latter referencing Guided by Voices while distancing themselves from previous associations.

Who is Kellen Baker?

Kellen Baker is the primary member of Good Flying Birds, responsible for writing, performing, and recording the majority of the music on Talulah’s Tape.

What are some influences on Good Flying Birds’ music?

The band’s sound draws inspiration from iconic indie pop bands such as Heavenly, the Radio Dept., the Wedding Present, and Teenage Fanclub, blending classic elements with their unique style.

Where can I listen to Talulah’s Tape?

Talulah’s Tape is available on various streaming platforms and was initially released as a cassette, capturing the DIY spirit of indie pop.