It’s cold, man! I hope you’re hunkered down with your comfort food of choice because this song is serving fireside umami. Austin quintet Cast of Thousands released their EP Useful People earlier this month, and weather like today, where you may be bending your ear a little closer to the radio, calls for a little fun puzzle for your ear to follow.

While the band’s influence stems all across the college and garage rock genres, “Serpo,” serves big Pavement and Built to Spill vibes. And that endorsement is golden in my book. Max Venderver’s nimble fingers are effortlessly working overtime on this bright, earworm melody, but the ensemble moves together; every layer is distinct. And while the heart of the song has an undeniable 90s college rock influence (not a complaint), the harmonies and vocals make it fresh and uniquely their own. It could inspire Stephen Malkmus to reach out to the Heavy Heavy, or hey, why not these guys.

“Serpo” is from the Useful People EP, out now.

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