Samiam - Astray [Yellow VInyl] (New Vinyl LP)

Oakland's Samiam unleashed their sixth album, "Astray," in 2000, and it's a heart-wrenching masterpiece. Samiam blends punk energy with alt-rock vibes and a melancholic undertone, all wrapped in a smartly produced soundscape. Astray doesn't shy away from darkness, confronting heavy themes like suicide with raw honesty and searing emotion. The music itself reflects the weight, rumbling bass-heavy guitars amplifying the somber mood. Amidst the intensity, gems like "Mud Hill." "Sunshine." & "Dull" (arguably their crown jewel) shines through, resonating with anyone who's ever felt the weight of sadness. Marking a band turning point, this was Samiam's last album with founding guitarist James Brogan and first with bassist Sean Kennerly.