It’s been a bit since we’ve posted on a band from our very own Buckeye State, but I’ve been meaning to get the word out about Cleveland duo Bears for a hot minute. “Eleven a.m.” is the first single from the band’s forthcoming album Greater Lakes, and it’s the kind of low-key indie pop that you can really latch onto. The record is officially out on February 14 via Misra Records, and everything I’ve heard from it so far leads me to believe it’ll creep into my list of favorites for 2012. These guys know how to write the hooks, and do it in such a way that it never feels forced or contrived, just warm and fuzzy. 

Greater Lakes is a project that was funded via Kickstarter, and apparently has taken a few years to complete. On record, Bears is comprised of dynamic duo Charlie McArthur and Craig Ramsey, while on stage they add a few other members depending on the show. I’m hoping to hit up the band’s album release show on Feb. 11 at the Grog Shop in Cleveland, where they’ll be playing with Lighthouse & The Whaler and Afternoon Naps in what’s sure to be a show to remember. Check out “Eleven a.m.” below and visit the band’s official site to pre-order Greater Lakes.

Eleven a.m. by Bears

Greater Lakes teaser by Bears

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–Sean