Stepdad is an American pop band from Michigan, and we here at HomelessTracks have been waiting patiently for the release of Wildlife Pop– the band’s sophomore release– for some time now. With a record label like Black Bell Records (founded by Ayad Al Adhamy of Passion Pit), and a producer like Chris Zane, the band has taken many strides and proved that it has what it takes to tackle the indie pop scene.

Although originally released on the bands freshman EP, Ordinaire, “Jungles” and “My Leather, My Fur, My Nails” have also made an appearance on Wildlife Pop. While “Jungles” moves forward with a low, bass-driven melody, “My Leather, My Fur, My Nails” does the opposite, playing with layers and moving forth as an upbeat track. Impressive enough, even on their second time around, the two tracks manage to stand out on the album.

It’s hard to pick specific tracks on this album to spotlight because all of the songs have high production value, a feeling of singularity, and a really nice sound. “Must Land Running,” though– one of the singles from the album– stills proves to be a shining track; with its fast-paced melody and impressive use of ultramark‘s wonderful vox. “To Ribbons,” with its rock vibe and “Pick & Choose,” with its upbeat, head bob-inducing feel, easily work their way into my collection of great Stepdad songs. “Jungles,” “My Leather, My Fur, My Nails,” and “Must Land Running,” land a place in that collection as well.

The rest of the tracks: “Show Me Your Blood,” “Mystery in the Faking,” “Will I Ever Dance Again?,” “Starfriends On Earth,” “Treasure Hugs,” “Exploring,” “Warrior,” and if you go deluxe, “Must Land Running (Berndsen Remix)” and “My Leather, My Fur, My Nails (Total Warr Remix),” are all strong as well and definitely shouldn’t be overlooked.

Before I listened to Wildlife Pop, I was skeptical; asking myself questions like, “Can Stepdad move out of the shadow that Passion Pit has cast?” Well, after hearing Wildlife Pop, I can finally say that Stepdad definitely stands out in the genre as a strong competitor. They offer quality sound and plenty of charisma to disarm even the most ardent skeptic.

You can check out the album on iTunes in the jump below, along with some of the more notable tracks. And if you are going to Warped Tour, make sure to stop by and check out Stepdad.

1. Must Land Running
2. Jungles
3. Show Me Your Blood
4. Mystery in the Faking
5. Will I Ever Dance Again?
6. To Ribbons
7. My Leather, My Fur, My Nails
8. Pick & Choose
9. Starfriends On Earth
10. Treasure Hugs
11. Exploring
12. Warrior (Jungles Pt. 2)
13. Must Land Running (Berndsen Remix) [Deluxe]
14. My Leather, My Fur, My Nails (Total Warr Remix) [Deluxe]

• Wildlife Pop on iTunes
• Stepdad on Facebook
• Stepdad on Twitter

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