“If you thought I was mean before, Just wait ’til I don’t hate myself anymore” is the razor-sharp hook coming from one of this week’s biggest hits. The song: Nice Girl. The band: Cowboy Boy, an L.A. duo comprising Olivia Maria and Mike Nevin. Following two EPs (Princess and Good Girl), which Get Better Records compiled on a single LP in 2021, the band now presents their debut full-length album.

Lipstick on a Pig is packed with bubblegummy, sugary power (alt)pop tracks that scream “pop music for punk fans” or vice versa. Or perhaps I should just stick with the band’s own description of “pink glittery power pop.” Cowboy Boy wraps relatable stories about relationship complexities and the human experience in an extremely accessible and enjoyable package. A sugar-coated exploration of life’s ups and downs, indeed!

Lipstick on a Pig is out now on Get Better Records.

Add to wantlist: Bandcamp