Cusp

Cusp is a band that likes to go back and forth between a fuzzy though melodically satisfying indie rock with relatively minor shoegaze influences and a bouncy, up-tempo pop that projects a sense of lightness. They are formed around the guitarist pair Jen Bender and Gaelen Bates, led by Bender's vocals. When they kick into a grittier sound, they might induce a '90s flashback (a welcome touch of Pavement slipperiness, for instance). They maintain their pop appeal in those moments, actually, and generally do a good job at managing to stretch into a harsher tone while balancing a sweet and melancholic streak. Their songs stand out with respect to their songwriting, as the band continues to put together some memorable riffs and highly effective hooks.