TOPS’ 2020 album I Feel Fine was a treat for all fans of Prefab Sprout. But now the Canadians are being challenged by Chicago group Varsity. They’ve never sounded anything like the K-pop group of the same name but on previous albums they seem to have been more influenced by Alvvays. But on new album Fine Forever they reach new sonic heights. At times reaching for the sun-drenched vibes of Sugar Candy Mountain, there’s plenty of chorus-laden guitars riding across funky bass lines. And while the sound instantly makes me think of TOPS, they have some really strong tunes in “Reason to Run” and “Shaking Hands”. Out on Run For Cover this week.
