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Once The Loon started making its way into the hands of college radio geeks across the country, things started to change for the Tapes. They began touring on the east coast, and secured a spot on the infamous SXSW festival where they were the buzz of the whole shindig. Dudes seriously ended up playing nine shows in only four days. After hopping in their van to rock out on both coasts and a short European jaunt, the group signed with XL records which boasts such artists as Thom Yorke and Basement Jaxx. Since the signing, Tapes ‘n Tapes have played more shows in the U.S. as well as appearing on The Late Show with David Letterman. They are presently gearing up for another trip across the pond to play in the U.K. and Ireland.

The Loon combines the classic indie rock sound popularized by bands like Modest Mouse and Pavement with a gritty homespun pseudo-cowboy feel. The opening track, “Just Drums” is pop-sounding and makes for a good single, but its not without its more abstract aesthetic. It’s the type of jam that could be heard both in a Target commercial or a dive bar. Other tracks such as "Manitoba" and "Omaha" showcase the band’s mellower tendencies without sacrificing the catchy hooks that sell this album. Overall, it’s a pleasantly haunting record that is hook-laden yet bizarre. Oh yeah, and they finally secured a presence in the Twin Cities, too. They’re playing Summit’s Big Brew on September 30 with The Alarmists and Cake.