Recorded in the band’s South Philly studio, An American Chinese’s debut LP begins with an atmospherically brief intro by way of “Safe Tigers”, which bleeds effortlessly into the windy backdrop of “Japanese Salesman”. Dreamy chords alongside textured vocals by frontman Mitch Marzec sets the album’s second track catchy with tambourine shakes and snare. Followed closely by “No No Like That”, An American Chinese makes the most of sparse yet concise backbeats alongside an acoustically seeped progression enriched by harmonized lines and a sharp chorus. “Jersey Claw” one of Panic Pilgrim’s best, resurfaces, with buzzing hums that lean into tongue-in-cheek lyricism nestled between steady drums and chords that play out like a chilled out b-side by the Violent Femmes with a pinch of scattered synth that vaguely conjures memories of the electrified interludes of The Cars’ power-pop single “Just What I Needed”. A presumable favorite for fans, “Indian Punk” remains upbeat and nears full-throttle while “Petition To Dear St. Augle” gradually eases into an energized conclusion by way of a stripped down intro that brings to mind pop smith Kiwi Lawrence Arabia. “Chasing Rabbit” is dancey with hints of acoustic punk sensibility and delectable synth. The cricket chirps of “Building a Blue Jay”, in addition to the track’s melodic integrity, render the song cinematic and bright. “Panic Pilgrim, Quick Grab Your Suitcase” showcases An American Chinese’s chops for imaginative storytelling with finesse. Ending with a final track bearing the quintet’s name, Utopian Tree roots itself in the swirling psych pop dreams of an act with the power to render listeners swaying and spellbound well after its latter notes. You can purchase the album here. – Dianca Potts