Song of the Day: Sugar Stems - We Only Come Out At Night

Every Monday through Friday, we deliver a different song as part our Song of the Day podcast subscription. This podcast features exclusive KEXP in-studio performances, unreleased songs, and recordings from independent artists that our DJs think you should hear. Today’s song, featured on The Afternoon Show with DJ Kevin Cole, is “We Only Come Out At Night” by Sugar Stems from the 2014 album Only Come Out At Night on Dirtnap Records.

Sugar Stems - We Only Come Out At Night (MP3)

With a name like Sugar Stems, you know you're in for some sweet, sweet sounds. Citing influences like the Go-Go's, Elastica, and the Pretenders, the Milwaukee quartet pour on the power pop on their third and latest album, Only Come Out At Night.

Formed in 2007 by former members of The Flips and Jetty Boys, Sugar Stems have released their most mature full-length yet. Frontwoman Betsy Heibler sneaks a little sour into the sweet with her sophisticated songwriting. In an interview with Audio Ammunition, Heibler notes, if their previous album was a golden retriever, the new one "will have more of a pit bull sound." Either way, Sugar Stems continue to be man's best friend with their sunny power pop songs.

You can follow the band on Twitter and Facebook. They haven't filmed any videos for songs off the new album (yet?), but check out the clip for "Make Up Your Mind" from last year's release, Can't Wait.