Hidden Smile

Shelflife and Precious Recordings of London present the new album Hidden Smile from 90s bedroom pop band The Autocollants.

Magnetic chemistry and connection helped The Autocollants create their first run of songs that landed on 7-inch singles and other releases in the late 1990s. ‘Why Couldn’t Things Just Stay The Same?’, a compilation CD, was released on Shelflife Records in 1999.

After 25-plus years (and with newly curated interest), The Autocollants – still the best of friends – decided to spend a long weekend together writing new songs. As a result, the DIY quartet created their long-awaited first full-length album ... Hidden Smile.

The Autocollants, based in Portland, Oregon, bring a simple, relaxed and heartfelt style of indiepop. Listening to these catchy pop songs, it’s not hard to feel a bit of nostalgia if you’re familiar with their early works. Laura’s vocals are as charming as they were back in the day. Maybe that’s what makes this record so familiar. The songs, even at first listen, are hum-along, stuck-in-your-head quality.

There is a sense of lead exchanges throughout the album. ‘Every Social is Interaction’, the first digital single, a fine example as the fast, breezy, guitar-driven pop song contrasts with feelings of social awkwardness. Backed by such a driving rhythm, Laura’s thought-provoking lyrics and bouncy delivery grab your attention.
Absolutely everything is done by the band – from writing to recording, mixing and artwork. The Autocollants have delivered a fantastic pop record on which their passion for friendship and great music shows.