The District Attorneys

The District Attorneys don’t disappoint in their EP, “Orders From…”, and they seem to be one of the best new bands to be coming out of the Athens/Atlanta area this summer. Front man Drew Beskin seems to have a real knack for songwriting, and their brand of rock has just enough folk/blues influence to keep it honest to the south. The album is eclectic, yet the tracks relate with one another, and each one is so necessary. Hope to catch another one of their live shows sometime soon. - Rollo & Grady (Los Angeles)

The District Attorneys don’t disappoint in their EP, “Orders From…”, and they seem to be one of the best new bands to be coming out of the Athens/Atlanta area this summer. Front man Drew Beskin seems to have a real knack for songwriting, and their brand of rock has just enough folk/blues influence to keep it honest to the south. The album is eclectic, yet the tracks relate with one another, and each one is so necessary. Hope to catch another one of their live shows sometime soon. - Rollo & Grady (Los Angeles)

Being a resident of the Twin Cities, it tends to get my Irish up when a young band’s one-sheeter compares them to The Replacements. Not that I think The ‘Mats were the greatest band ever to walk the earth; I just discovered them at the right time in my life, and for me, Paul and his lovable losers represent the perfect balance of pie-eyed and poignant. I fear we will not again see the like of them.

Atlanta’s The District Attorneys are the latest, but certainly not the last, to dareth take the name in vain. But I’m going to look the other way, simply because I have a good feeling about these cats. Pardon another regional reference, but they are like the Twins, doing all the little things right in a way that allows them to surpass bands with far greater experience and/or financial backing. Produced by Thomas Johnson of Futurebirds, the band’s Orders From…EP is a pleasantly unrefined, yet accomplished, record that reveals The DAs to be promising and tasteful tunesmiths who at times recall Marah bed-hopping with Fleetwood Mac. The quintet has been at it for less than two years, yet they’ve reportedly managed to amass a catalog of 100+ original numbers, so I can only imagine they have a high-quality full-length in the chamber. In the meantime, give Splitsville a listen, then grab Orders From… for free from their Bandcamp page. - My Old Kentucky Blog

Being a resident of the Twin Cities, it tends to get my Irish up when a young band’s one-sheeter compares them to The Replacements. Not that I think The ‘Mats were the greatest band ever to walk the earth; I just discovered them at the right time in my life, and for me, Paul and his lovable losers represent the perfect balance of pie-eyed and poignant. I fear we will not again see the like of them.

Atlanta’s The District Attorneys are the latest, but certainly not the last, to dareth take the name in vain. But I’m going to look the other way, simply because I have a good feeling about these cats. Pardon another regional reference, but they are like the Twins, doing all the little things right in a way that allows them to surpass bands with far greater experience and/or financial backing. Produced by Thomas Johnson of Futurebirds, the band’s Orders From…EP is a pleasantly unrefined, yet accomplished, record that reveals The DAs to be promising and tasteful tunesmiths who at times recall Marah bed-hopping with Fleetwood Mac. The quintet has been at it for less than two years, yet they’ve reportedly managed to amass a catalog of 100+ original numbers, so I can only imagine they have a high-quality full-length in the chamber. In the meantime, give Splitsville a listen, then grab Orders From… for free from their Bandcamp page. - My Old Kentucky Blog

To serve as a bridge between the gap of material for the band, The District Attorneys have released an EP of new material for their fans. The Calm Down: The Basement Sessions EP may be only a small batch of demos, but with this material here, the potential for a classic rock album for the band isn’t much of a far-fetched dream. Some of the demos on this EP border on not only single-worthy, but perhaps a #1 Billboard single-worthy.

“California Fire” sounds like just that. A free-flowing opener for the EP, the track shines through the rest of the material from the band. From the first few seconds of the track, you just know that the band has something special in their sleeve for their first proper LP. Definitely an impressive opening case.

“Slowburner” in actuality isn’t one at all, for it is the instantly infectious tune of the EP. Ranging from The Beach Boys to Weezer, the track is pure summer fun. “Far Past the Point of Resolve” actually stands as a the slow burner on the album. A well-crafted tune, “Far Past the Point of Resolve” shows a more laid-back side of the band. While “Worry About Your Health,” an instrumental jam session, allows the Attorneys to let loose and show their untamed musical talent.

“The End” isn’t actually the end of the EP, but would have made for an impressive closing track. A slightly haunting track, it makes for perfect driving down a dusty hill late at night. Because “The End” sounds and would make such a wondering closing song (or statement, in their case), “Wrecking Ball” (a cover song) tends to be a let down. Sounding more demo-ish than the other tracks, this track may not be for all. But it’s not enough evidence to show that The District Attorneys aren’t an amazing band. In fact, this EP has more stunning tracks than most full-length “rock” albums in the past three years.

The Athens-based District Attorneys may be in the paralegal stage of their career, but if their released EPs so far are any indication of their talent and charisma, Chris Wilson, Drew Beskin, Frank Keith IV, TJ Mimbs and Walker Beard have an impressive string of hits in their future.

The District Attorneys play Masquerade on November 4. - Atlanta Music Guide

To serve as a bridge between the gap of material for the band, The District Attorneys have released an EP of new material for their fans. The Calm Down: The Basement Sessions EP may be only a small batch of demos, but with this material here, the potential for a classic rock album for the band isn’t much of a far-fetched dream. Some of the demos on this EP border on not only single-worthy, but perhaps a #1 Billboard single-worthy.

“California Fire” sounds like just that. A free-flowing opener for the EP, the track shines through the rest of the material from the band. From the first few seconds of the track, you just know that the band has something special in their sleeve for their first proper LP. Definitely an impressive opening case.

“Slowburner” in actuality isn’t one at all, for it is the instantly infectious tune of the EP. Ranging from The Beach Boys to Weezer, the track is pure summer fun. “Far Past the Point of Resolve” actually stands as a the slow burner on the album. A well-crafted tune, “Far Past the Point of Resolve” shows a more laid-back side of the band. While “Worry About Your Health,” an instrumental jam session, allows the Attorneys to let loose and show their untamed musical talent.

“The End” isn’t actually the end of the EP, but would have made for an impressive closing track. A slightly haunting track, it makes for perfect driving down a dusty hill late at night. Because “The End” sounds and would make such a wondering closing song (or statement, in their case), “Wrecking Ball” (a cover song) tends to be a let down. Sounding more demo-ish than the other tracks, this track may not be for all. But it’s not enough evidence to show that The District Attorneys aren’t an amazing band. In fact, this EP has more stunning tracks than most full-length “rock” albums in the past three years.

The Athens-based District Attorneys may be in the paralegal stage of their career, but if their released EPs so far are any indication of their talent and charisma, Chris Wilson, Drew Beskin, Frank Keith IV, TJ Mimbs and Walker Beard have an impressive string of hits in their future.

The District Attorneys play Masquerade on November 4. - Atlanta Music Guide

Atlanta-based The District Attorneys have a new EP available for free on their bandcamp page. It’s must download for sure.

Waiting on the Calm Down: The Basement Sessions contains five original tracks and one cover the band has been working on while preparing to get into the studio next month. The EP combines everything awesome about surf pop, rock and Americana. My favorite tracks on the EP are the slow banger “Worry About Your Health” and the twangy rock track “The End.” Check it out below, then head on over to their bandcamp and get the whole thing. Did I mention it’s free? Well, it’s free.
- Wholly Roller (Atlanta)

Atlanta-based The District Attorneys have a new EP available for free on their bandcamp page. It’s must download for sure.

Waiting on the Calm Down: The Basement Sessions contains five original tracks and one cover the band has been working on while preparing to get into the studio next month. The EP combines everything awesome about surf pop, rock and Americana. My favorite tracks on the EP are the slow banger “Worry About Your Health” and the twangy rock track “The End.” Check it out below, then head on over to their bandcamp and get the whole thing. Did I mention it’s free? Well, it’s free.
- Wholly Roller (Atlanta)

It's no secret that we music junksters in the Roxwel office have a special place in our hearts for the tunes that come from Athens, GA. We have much love for oldies who have spawned from the small town like R.E.M., The B-52s and Widespread Panic as well as some super cool newer acts like Futurebirds, The Whigs and Dead Confederate.

Now, there is plenty of evidence to prove that The District Attorneys are another act to be added to the list of badass bands from Athens.

Based in Athens/Atlanta, The District Attorneys have been kicking it for almost two years and have already shared the stage with Jesse Malin, Futurebirds, The Love Language, Dead Confederate frontman Hardy Morris, Hank and Cupcakes, Jessica Lea Mayfield, Diane Birch and many more.

While prepping to make their first full-length studio debut, the 5-piece band recently released their EP "Waiting on the Calm Down: The Basement Sessions EP" - a collection of demos plus an awesome cover of Gillian Welch's "Wrecking Ball." With southern rock riffs mixed in with some dreamy pedal steel and a touch of surfer vibes soaked in reverb, these guys will make you want chillax on the porch with an ice cold Lone Star and reminisce about the good 'ole days.

Be sure to check out the FREE EP of pre-production demos and get excited for a full album from The District Attorneys right HERE! - Roxwel (Austin)

It's no secret that we music junksters in the Roxwel office have a special place in our hearts for the tunes that come from Athens, GA. We have much love for oldies who have spawned from the small town like R.E.M., The B-52s and Widespread Panic as well as some super cool newer acts like Futurebirds, The Whigs and Dead Confederate.

Now, there is plenty of evidence to prove that The District Attorneys are another act to be added to the list of badass bands from Athens.

Based in Athens/Atlanta, The District Attorneys have been kicking it for almost two years and have already shared the stage with Jesse Malin, Futurebirds, The Love Language, Dead Confederate frontman Hardy Morris, Hank and Cupcakes, Jessica Lea Mayfield, Diane Birch and many more.

While prepping to make their first full-length studio debut, the 5-piece band recently released their EP "Waiting on the Calm Down: The Basement Sessions EP" - a collection of demos plus an awesome cover of Gillian Welch's "Wrecking Ball." With southern rock riffs mixed in with some dreamy pedal steel and a touch of surfer vibes soaked in reverb, these guys will make you want chillax on the porch with an ice cold Lone Star and reminisce about the good 'ole days.

Be sure to check out the FREE EP of pre-production demos and get excited for a full album from The District Attorneys right HERE! - Roxwel (Austin)

These days several bands give away EPs for free. Most consider it marketing or a way to spread the word when they are confident enough to know that as long as they can get the word out the music will live on and most importantly people will attend their shows which is really the only way bands make cash these days. In the case of The District Attorneys their music made down in Athens, GA will certainly reach a large audience if they keep on trucking. Fans of Uncle Tupelo, Whiskeytown, and the old Ryan Adams catalog are sure to open The DAs with open arms. These guys use hints of an alt-country twang and the steel guitar to carve a unique sound that is easy on the ears. Keep an eye on HD or their site for more info on their full length album sometime out in early 2012. Long live the music, especially all the tunes from Athens! Free download. - Harmon Drive (Chicago)

These days several bands give away EPs for free. Most consider it marketing or a way to spread the word when they are confident enough to know that as long as they can get the word out the music will live on and most importantly people will attend their shows which is really the only way bands make cash these days. In the case of The District Attorneys their music made down in Athens, GA will certainly reach a large audience if they keep on trucking. Fans of Uncle Tupelo, Whiskeytown, and the old Ryan Adams catalog are sure to open The DAs with open arms. These guys use hints of an alt-country twang and the steel guitar to carve a unique sound that is easy on the ears. Keep an eye on HD or their site for more info on their full length album sometime out in early 2012. Long live the music, especially all the tunes from Athens! Free download. - Harmon Drive (Chicago)

Up and coming Athens, GA act, The District Attorneys, have released a free EP full of demos and one excellent cover of Gillian Welch’s “Wrecking Ball.” Lucky for them they chose one of my favorites by Gillian Welch.

As I mentioned in our original post, if you dig The Futurebird, you’ll most likely enjoy these fellas as well. Look for a full debut in 2012. - Hearya.com

Up and coming Athens, GA act, The District Attorneys, have released a free EP full of demos and one excellent cover of Gillian Welch’s “Wrecking Ball.” Lucky for them they chose one of my favorites by Gillian Welch.

As I mentioned in our original post, if you dig The Futurebird, you’ll most likely enjoy these fellas as well. Look for a full debut in 2012. - Hearya.com

Hailing from Atlanta and Athens, GA with vocals soaked in reverb, The District Attorneys are a 5-piece that just released an EP that points to a very bright future. The album was produced by Thomas Johnson and Carter King of The Futurebirds – an apt band for comparison.

Both bands are from Georgia. Both have released an EP that, while a little rough around the edges, shows great promise and lets their southern roots shine. The District Attorneys are a blend of Band of Horses and The Futurebirds with songs featuring giant hooks and even some Poison lyrics (Jerry Ten).

“Going To Carolina,” which is basically about going to Carolina, chugs along with some nice slide and harmonica over the ambling hook. “Splitsville” is a nice rabble-rouser with a tasty lick at the end. There are two songs for download below and the 7 song debut will have you humming along and tapping your feet.

- Hearya.com

As one of two resident Southerners at ATG, I feel obligated not only to rep undiscovered, promising young bands, but especially to hype up-and-comers from below the Mason Dixon line. Hailing from Atlanta/Athens (my hometown, and one of my favorite Southern towns), The District Attorneys fit snugly into both said categories. Boasting discernible influences from the vocals of Band Of Horses to Dick Dale surf rock to the honky tonk of Exile On Main Street, The District Attorneys derive a sound that’s lively, fresh, and fun. Lend an ear, give a listen, and keep an eye on these fellas. - All Things Go

As one of two resident Southerners at ATG, I feel obligated not only to rep undiscovered, promising young bands, but especially to hype up-and-comers from below the Mason Dixon line. Hailing from Atlanta/Athens (my hometown, and one of my favorite Southern towns), The District Attorneys fit snugly into both said categories. Boasting discernible influences from the vocals of Band Of Horses to Dick Dale surf rock to the honky tonk of Exile On Main Street, The District Attorneys derive a sound that’s lively, fresh, and fun. Lend an ear, give a listen, and keep an eye on these fellas. - All Things Go

ndie pop musicality with Americana influences, The District Attorneys, from Atlanta, Ga. blend vocal harmonies with distorted and swelling guitars that create an atmospheric sound. Their song “Splitsville” is a celebratory, moonshine-induced sing-along with gang vocals in the chorus. The song is proof why this unsigned band shouldn’t be ignored.
www.facebook.com/thedistrictattorneys - Relix

ndie pop musicality with Americana influences, The District Attorneys, from Atlanta, Ga. blend vocal harmonies with distorted and swelling guitars that create an atmospheric sound. Their song “Splitsville” is a celebratory, moonshine-induced sing-along with gang vocals in the chorus. The song is proof why this unsigned band shouldn’t be ignored.
www.facebook.com/thedistrictattorneys - Relix

My favorite Rolling Stones songs are the country-influenced ones. I’m guessing the guys in Atlanta’s The District Attorneys feel the same way as their debut EP is filled with some great beer drinking rock n’ roll accentuated by harmonica and pedal steel guitar playing. But the Stones influence isn’t the only one, in fact, the Orders From … EP is a mixed bag where you’ll also catch melodies/guitar riffs/etc. that’ll remind you of the Beach Boys, The Replacements, The Jesus & Mary Chain and Modest Mouse.

Drew Beskin, The District Attorneys’ songwriter/singer/guitarist, answers 3 questions about track 3, “Splitsville”, from the Orders From … EP. - Atomic Ned

My favorite Rolling Stones songs are the country-influenced ones. I’m guessing the guys in Atlanta’s The District Attorneys feel the same way as their debut EP is filled with some great beer drinking rock n’ roll accentuated by harmonica and pedal steel guitar playing. But the Stones influence isn’t the only one, in fact, the Orders From … EP is a mixed bag where you’ll also catch melodies/guitar riffs/etc. that’ll remind you of the Beach Boys, The Replacements, The Jesus & Mary Chain and Modest Mouse.

Drew Beskin, The District Attorneys’ songwriter/singer/guitarist, answers 3 questions about track 3, “Splitsville”, from the Orders From … EP. - Atomic Ned

The District Attorneys don’t disappoint in their EP, “Orders From…”, and they seem to be one of the best new bands to be coming out of the Athens/Atlanta area this summer. Front man Drew Beskin seems to have a real knack for songwriting, and their brand of rock has just enough folk/blues influence to keep it honest to the south. The album is eclectic, yet the tracks relate with one another, and each one is so necessary. Hope to catch another one of their live shows sometime soon. - Mixburner

The District Attorneys don’t disappoint in their EP, “Orders From…”, and they seem to be one of the best new bands to be coming out of the Athens/Atlanta area this summer. Front man Drew Beskin seems to have a real knack for songwriting, and their brand of rock has just enough folk/blues influence to keep it honest to the south. The album is eclectic, yet the tracks relate with one another, and each one is so necessary. Hope to catch another one of their live shows sometime soon. - Mixburner

Saturday, August 21 Smith's Olde Bar presented a showcase of pure rock and roll. Atlanta's The District Attorneys' kicked off the night with their radio ready songs combining catchy melodies and spot-on harmonies. AutoVaughn performed second turning up the volume, literally. The Nashville band has been an Atlanta favorite for years, and Saturday they proved why. An impressive combination of indie-pop, alternative-rock, and southern influence makes their songs sound effortless yet complex all at once. Adding a colorful light show to amp their performance, AutoVaughn ended their set with in true rock and roll fashion with shredding guitars and jumps off the drum set.

Knoxville's The Dirty Guv'nahs closed out the night with an intensely energetic show. In fact, so intense their snare drum broke mid performance. Frontman James Trimble attacked each song with pure abandon, while managing not to miss a note, beat, or frantic dance step. Guv'nahs is a band that needs to be witnessed live. Not only does the band get into their performance, but the entire audience let loose. This was not a crowd that lightly swayed their hips. From the stage to light board, men and women were swinging their arms and legs to each song, whether on-beat or not, people were there just to absorb and enjoy the music and it was a refreshing site to see. - Mixtape Atlanta

Saturday, August 21 Smith's Olde Bar presented a showcase of pure rock and roll. Atlanta's The District Attorneys' kicked off the night with their radio ready songs combining catchy melodies and spot-on harmonies. AutoVaughn performed second turning up the volume, literally. The Nashville band has been an Atlanta favorite for years, and Saturday they proved why. An impressive combination of indie-pop, alternative-rock, and southern influence makes their songs sound effortless yet complex all at once. Adding a colorful light show to amp their performance, AutoVaughn ended their set with in true rock and roll fashion with shredding guitars and jumps off the drum set.

Knoxville's The Dirty Guv'nahs closed out the night with an intensely energetic show. In fact, so intense their snare drum broke mid performance. Frontman James Trimble attacked each song with pure abandon, while managing not to miss a note, beat, or frantic dance step. Guv'nahs is a band that needs to be witnessed live. Not only does the band get into their performance, but the entire audience let loose. This was not a crowd that lightly swayed their hips. From the stage to light board, men and women were swinging their arms and legs to each song, whether on-beat or not, people were there just to absorb and enjoy the music and it was a refreshing site to see. - Mixtape Atlanta

Atlanta GA based band The District Attorneys are giving away their debut 7 track EP, get it here at Bandcamp - Beat Surrender

Local janglers District Attorneys have released a music video for the song "Sweetheart All Reckless and Humble" off their Orders From... EP.

The clip features a pie tin flying saucer worthy of a Flaming Lips video only in grainy black and white which isn't a bad way of thinking of the band's music, come to think of it. Though poppy on the surface, something makes you notice the country far beneath. - Flagpole, Athens

Local janglers District Attorneys have released a music video for the song "Sweetheart All Reckless and Humble" off their Orders From... EP.

The clip features a pie tin flying saucer worthy of a Flaming Lips video only in grainy black and white which isn't a bad way of thinking of the band's music, come to think of it. Though poppy on the surface, something makes you notice the country far beneath. - Flagpole, Athens

“As your attorney…” it’s imperative you listen to Orders From… This Athens-originated, Atlanta-displaced band’s first 7-track EP conjures images of the Beach Boys swapping surfboards for pickup trucks. It’s a fusion of sounds brought to the surface with Beach Boys-style vocals layered with Southern rock-rooted pedal steel and guitar riffs. The songs about the Carolinas pay tribute to the Southeast, while the final track “Jerry Ten,” to Poison. Something for everyone. [Sarah Savage] - Flagpole, Athens

“As your attorney…” it’s imperative you listen to Orders From… This Athens-originated, Atlanta-displaced band’s first 7-track EP conjures images of the Beach Boys swapping surfboards for pickup trucks. It’s a fusion of sounds brought to the surface with Beach Boys-style vocals layered with Southern rock-rooted pedal steel and guitar riffs. The songs about the Carolinas pay tribute to the Southeast, while the final track “Jerry Ten,” to Poison. Something for everyone. [Sarah Savage] - Flagpole, Athens

This Atlanta rock act crafts great indie pop songs. Their debut EP “Orders From…” is available now and they are currently in the studio working on new songs while playing wild live shows and hunting for a label. - The Film Vault

Athens, GA, in addition to being consistently ranked among the top college towns in the world, is a hotbed for local music that breaks big on a national scene. Home to now famous acts across a variety of genres such as R.E.M., the B-52’s, Bubba Sparxxx, Drive-By Truckers, Widespread Panic, among a host of others, music industry ears constantly leaning towards the northeast Georgia town in hopes of hearing the next big sound to come out of Bulldawg Country. Here’s a look at a distinct band that brings something a little different to the table.

The District Attorneys play music with a quirky, original and clever approach, never accused of taking themselves too seriously. In short, the DAs (no legal background) make music that’s just plain fun to listen to. Frontman Drew Beskin provides many personally written lyrics paying tribute to the timeless highs and lows of young adulthood, all without getting too heavy. According to the band’s official MySpace page, they sound like “plain cheese pizza” and take notable influence from “love wars baby.” Combining twangy instrumentals and soothing background melodies, in what can best be described as a unique brand of jangle-pop sound, the band clearly offers more than their comically modest self-descriptions would indicate. From the breakup track “Splittsville” which makes parting ways seem more like a warm summer day on the quad than a life altering conundrum to “The Deep End of You and Me,” seamlessly weaving relationship pitfalls with the goodtime feel and musical stylings of yesteryear, the DAs make light of some of even tough situations simply by making music that’s easy to listen to. Above all else, the music is very unmistakably likable, no small feat in today’s age of cynicism and contempt
- Five Crown Lane

It is highly unlikely that someone who sat for the bar exam would be considered a laid-back individual. Thus it is ironic that when a band from Athens dubbing themselves The District Attorneys, they have the ability to transport you to the hazy days of summer where all you need is some PBR, good friends, and the road. These non-lawyers have accomplished just that. On their latest EP Orders From, The District Attorneys have created a seven-song EP that would easily make them an appropriate opener for The Rolling Stones circa 1963.
And the music? Heavily slathered in SPF Reverb, while paying homage to the smoky mountains of South Carolina instead of the swells in Orange County. Not far off from their musical brothers, Surfer Blood, but not dismissible. The band is simply FUN. Even their MySpace page claims their sound to be: Plain Cheese Pizza.

The entire album seems to be centered around getting the hell out of town, while remaining upbeat and light-hearted. “The Caro-Lines” has an early Band of Horses feel with vocals just just distant enough to be the driving song of the summer. “Splitsville,” is a moonshine-induced sing-along filled with swanky guitars and friends shouting in the background. The EP is short and worthwhile; a perfect pick of songs to add to your summer mix-tapes, and sure to be seen on some best local act ballots soon enough.
- Atlanta Music Guide

It is highly unlikely that someone who sat for the bar exam would be considered a laid-back individual. Thus it is ironic that when a band from Athens dubbing themselves The District Attorneys, they have the ability to transport you to the hazy days of summer where all you need is some PBR, good friends, and the road. These non-lawyers have accomplished just that. On their latest EP Orders From, The District Attorneys have created a seven-song EP that would easily make them an appropriate opener for The Rolling Stones circa 1963.
And the music? Heavily slathered in SPF Reverb, while paying homage to the smoky mountains of South Carolina instead of the swells in Orange County. Not far off from their musical brothers, Surfer Blood, but not dismissible. The band is simply FUN. Even their MySpace page claims their sound to be: Plain Cheese Pizza.

The entire album seems to be centered around getting the hell out of town, while remaining upbeat and light-hearted. “The Caro-Lines” has an early Band of Horses feel with vocals just just distant enough to be the driving song of the summer. “Splitsville,” is a moonshine-induced sing-along filled with swanky guitars and friends shouting in the background. The EP is short and worthwhile; a perfect pick of songs to add to your summer mix-tapes, and sure to be seen on some best local act ballots soon enough.
- Atlanta Music Guide

Everything about The District Attorneys screams "FUN", from their cheeky name , to their myspace info (sounds like "Plain Cheese Pizza" and influences "Love Wars Baby"), to the goofball facebook pictures. And indie rock fun is an elusive and tricky commodity that seems to be in short supply these days. But FUN plus songwriting chops and a slapdash production that includes gang vocals (and why don't more bands use them?), a little banjo, wooooaaaahs aplenty, and guitar sounds borrowed form the late, great Rave-Ups make "Splitsville" a freewheeling feel-good anthem for the relationship-challenged that walk among us.

And since it's 2010 and impossible to overcome internet overload, promising young bands (actually bands of all age) are forced to share their songs for free. And that's just what the D.A.'s have done, throwing y'all a bone by giving away their spiffy 7 song EP, Orders From..." for free right here. You've been served.
- Teenage Kicks-Philly/Kansas City

Everything about The District Attorneys screams "FUN", from their cheeky name , to their myspace info (sounds like "Plain Cheese Pizza" and influences "Love Wars Baby"), to the goofball facebook pictures. And indie rock fun is an elusive and tricky commodity that seems to be in short supply these days. But FUN plus songwriting chops and a slapdash production that includes gang vocals (and why don't more bands use them?), a little banjo, wooooaaaahs aplenty, and guitar sounds borrowed form the late, great Rave-Ups make "Splitsville" a freewheeling feel-good anthem for the relationship-challenged that walk among us.

And since it's 2010 and impossible to overcome internet overload, promising young bands (actually bands of all age) are forced to share their songs for free. And that's just what the D.A.'s have done, throwing y'all a bone by giving away their spiffy 7 song EP, Orders From..." for free right here. You've been served.
- Teenage Kicks-Philly/Kansas City

When I think of "fun in the sun," lawyers aren't the first thing that comes to mind, but from now on, I will look to Athens' District Attorneys for the appropriate soundtrack. Their summery Americana is wrapped in a gauzy layer of reverb that gives the songs a subtle beach vibe. But there is just a enough pedal steel calling in the background and jangly banjo to place the band firmly in the South. So, instead of valley girls and big kahunas, The District Attorneys pay homage to the mountains and valleys of South Carolina and the bluesy, boozy energy of the East Coast.

An overdose of reverb seems to be a common trend these days, in the wake of Animal Collective, Grizzly Bear, Surfer Blood and the like, but this is much more organic and breezier than all that. The smooth backing vocals float in like wafts of honeysuckle, and the mood remains upbeat and light-hearted throughout. Stand-out tracks include the particularly celebratory "Splitsville," with its chorus of friends singing in the background, locomotive harmonica and big Southern rock riffs. Closing track "Jerry Ten" made me smile with its seamless homage to Poison, as frontman Drew Beskin hollers melodically, "won't be nothin' but a good time" mid-verse.

Orders From… is a sizable EP at seven tracks, but every song is absolutely essential. Expect this gem to make more than a few local year-end best-of lists. - Flagpole, Athens

When I think of "fun in the sun," lawyers aren't the first thing that comes to mind, but from now on, I will look to Athens' District Attorneys for the appropriate soundtrack. Their summery Americana is wrapped in a gauzy layer of reverb that gives the songs a subtle beach vibe. But there is just a enough pedal steel calling in the background and jangly banjo to place the band firmly in the South. So, instead of valley girls and big kahunas, The District Attorneys pay homage to the mountains and valleys of South Carolina and the bluesy, boozy energy of the East Coast.

An overdose of reverb seems to be a common trend these days, in the wake of Animal Collective, Grizzly Bear, Surfer Blood and the like, but this is much more organic and breezier than all that. The smooth backing vocals float in like wafts of honeysuckle, and the mood remains upbeat and light-hearted throughout. Stand-out tracks include the particularly celebratory "Splitsville," with its chorus of friends singing in the background, locomotive harmonica and big Southern rock riffs. Closing track "Jerry Ten" made me smile with its seamless homage to Poison, as frontman Drew Beskin hollers melodically, "won't be nothin' but a good time" mid-verse.

Orders From… is a sizable EP at seven tracks, but every song is absolutely essential. Expect this gem to make more than a few local year-end best-of lists. - Flagpole, Athens