Real Estate

Where they were

Released in January 2009, 'Real Estate' marked Real Estate's debut album, introducing their unique take on indie rock. At this point, the band was still relatively unknown, having formed just a year prior in 2008, and this album laid the groundwork for their subsequent rise within the genre.

Why it matters

The album received critical acclaim, with notable praise from publications like Pitchfork and Rolling Stone, helping establish Real Estate as significant players in the indie rock scene. Its warm sound and relatable themes resonated with listeners and contributed to the lo-fi aesthetic that became popular in the late 2000s.

Essential tracks

• "Beach Comber" — 'Beach Comber' captures the album's sunny vibe with its catchy hooks and lush instrumentation, setting the tone for the entire record.
• "Atlantic City" — This track showcases Real Estate's knack for combining nostalgia with a sense of longing, highlighted by its evocative lyrics and melodic structure.
• "Pool Swimmers" — 'Pool Swimmers' features intricate guitar work layered with harmonies, embodying the carefree summer atmosphere prevalent throughout the album.
• "Suburban Dogs" — With its reflective lyrics about suburban life, 'Suburban Dogs' poignantly illustrates the band's thematic focus on everyday experiences.