Waiting for a War - The Morning Benders

Although they released their first full length album in May 2008, The Morning Benders have already performed with such notable acts as Death Cab for Cutie, The Kooks and MGMT. This Berkeley-based indie quartet crafts summery songs that keep tough topics light and gives them a sense of optimism. The Morning Benders are noticeably influenced by The Beach Boys and early Beatles, but they have a sound that is their own. Playful piano, tamborines, jangly guitar and Chris Chu's vocals make their 60s-influenced pop songs catchy, but not devoid of deeper meaning.