Preston School of Industry

Named after a Northern California reform school, Scott Kannberg's first solo release followed closely on the heals of former Pavement cohort Steven Malkmus' release. The ensuing press sought to pick sides, each journalist trying to pull quotes on the other's work and reputation. Through it all, PSOI managed to make the critical cut. Kannberg's songs are written in classic style, delivered in a blanket of top-notch production and Indie Rock sheen. Compared to his back catalog and current competition, this is pretty conventional stuff, but pop music isn't really about breaking the rules, is it?