It is fitting that Girls debut, aptly titled “Album,” was released on the first day of fall, Sept. 22. The San Francisco duo, comprised of lead singer/guitarist Christopher Owens and multi-instrumentalist Chet “JR” White, write songs with a summer tinged sound  that owe a great debt to the California bands of yesteryear. With big on hooks and melody, while still remaining substantive, “Album” is a fun record from start to finish.

Opener and instant standout “Lust for Life” gets things started with an insanely catchy surf guitar riff, coupled with lyrics about wanting a new start in life. “Maybe if I really try with all of my heart, then I can make a brand new start, in love with you,” sings Owens in his urgent, raw voice. When the band enters in on the heels of a strong bass line, the song really takes off. “Laura” quickly follows it up as a catchy number pleading for a girl to remain friends with him, despite the mistakes he’s made.

Perhaps Girls greatest strength on “Album” is their confident sound. At almost seven minutes long, the melodramatic “Hellhole Ratrace” could easily have been an overindulgent, saturated bore. However, its strong introspective lyrics and attention to detail and substance make it arguably the strongest song on the album.

It is evident that Girls have studied the strengths of their predecessors, channeling their strong suits into something completely their own. With “Album,” they have released an assured, confident collection of clever songs that will keep you warm during the cold months ahead. It’ll be exciting to see what the group does next, but for the time being, enjoy a sunlit drive down the highway with keeper of a debut.

Opener and instant standout “Lustfor Life” gets things started with an insanely catchy surf guitar riff, coupledwith lyrics about wanting a new start in life. “Maybe if I really try with allof my heart, then I can make a brand new start, in love with you,” sings Owensin his urgent, raw voice. When the band enters in on the heels of a strong bassline, the song really takes off. “Laura” quickly follows it up as a catchynumber pleading for a girl to remain friends with him, despite the mistakeshe’s made.