Vermont trio Happy Birthday’s self-titled Sub Pop debut is full of catchy, off-kilter songs like the previously posted “Girls FM” and this new gem “Subliminal Message.” The distinctive vocals belong to Kyle Thomas, who you’ll also know from Feathers, King Tuff, and stoned-out J. Mascis metal crew Witch. The latter’s dual-guitar sludge offered an interesting backdrop to Thomas’ sweet, nasal intonations. You’d expect him to sound more at home in a pop setting, but it’s as interesting here because the structure seems ready to implode after each breezy hook (and warping guitar solo). That, and it sounds like he’s throat-singing through his nostrils.

• Happy Birthday – “Subliminal Message”Download

Happy Birthday is out 3/16 (tomorrow) via Sub Pop. Stream it:

And see them any number of times in Austin:

3/17 – Austin, TX @ SXSW (GvsB/True Panther Party)
3/17 – Ausitn, TX @ SXSW (End Of An Ear)
3/18 – Austin, TX @SXSW (Burger Records Party)
3/18 – Austin, TX @ SXSW (Sub Pop/Hardly Art Showcase)
3/19 – Austin, TX @ SXSW (GCT Party at Urban Outfitters)
3/19 – Austin, TX @ SXSW (Woodsist Party)
3/20 – Austin, TX @ SXSW (Waterloo Records In-Store)
3/20 – Austin, TX @ SXSW (Ihaterocknroll Party)
3/20 – Austin, TX @ SXSW (Vice)