(self-released)

It’s hard to get a clear read on what exactly the psych-rockers in Dream Eye Color Wheel are shooting for, which makes it all the more intriguing. There is a lo-fi quality that provides some useful insight into their process; it suggest a dedication to craft over polish. This is not to suggest that it sounds rushed or incomplete, but rather a reflection of that urge to release and evolve. Title track “Dream Eye” is lovely, shimmering in a haze of synth and jangly guitars, culminating in a joyous noise. Complimenting this is “Old Boy,” which is comparatively a bit murkier, although no less pop-influenced. The end result plays like a reverb-soaked take on post-punk bands like The Cure or This Heat, focusing on strong melodies to carry the tune.