We residents of rainy Seattle don’t tend to use umbrellas, preferring a good had or just letting ourselves get a little damp. But we must admit that umbrellas can be very, very satisfying. A case in point is “She Buys Herself Flowers” by The Umbrellas. The band is a jangle pop four-piece that confirms our suspicion that San Francisco’s stature as a lo-fi, indie pop bastion is well-earned. With acts like The Reds, Pinks & Purples, Flowertown, Tony Jay, The Mantles, how could it be otherwise?
“She Buys Herself Flowers” is a classic rush of indie pop that might bring to mind The Pastels or a Sarah Records comp — hooks and melody with catchy choruses and just limber enough to justify a DIY tag. It is the first single from the band’s upcoming self-titled debut, which will be released via Slumberland Records on August 6.
The Umbrellas are Matt Ferrara (vocals/guitar/keys), Keith Frerichs (guitar/drums/vocals), Morgan Stanley (vocals/guitar), and Nick Oka (bass).