New album: Lunchbox || Evolver
A time capsule of playful invention, pressed to vinyl at last.
The trumpet in the opening second goes: Taa-dada-da-daa! What a way to pull you into a record.
Lunchbox are back with a flourish on Evolver, out now on Slumberland. But technically, this isn’t a new album—it’s a rediscovered one. Originally recorded more than 20 years ago by Donna McKean and Tim Brown using “half-broken reel-to-reel tape decks and vintage synthesizers,” Evolver now gets its first-ever LP release (make it a double), complete with bonus tracks.
Don’t expect a conventional indie pop record. While there are absolute pop gems here—like the title track, Letters from Overend, and Satellite—the overall vibe is more eclectic and exploratory. Think dream pop, trip hop, psych pop, and plenty of unexpected turns. Even the most accessible songs aren’t typical three-minute hits. The experimental touches feel playful and organic, like two talented musicians learning their way around strange gear and enjoying every second of it.
This is my first time hearing Evolver, and I’m kinda blown away that it was made so long ago. Lunchbox were ahead of the curve—doing then what a lot of bands are doing now. What a cool record this is!
Add to wantlist: Bandcamp || Slumberland