The male/female rock duo formula is a time tested tradition. Whether it owes to the simplicity of the setup, the contrasting timbres and harmonies possible, or some sort of subliminal sexual tension is anyone’s guess. But from Richard & Linda Thompson to Quasi to the White Stripes to Sonny & Cher, and even, um, Roxette, there’s no denying its appeal. The Aquarium popped up in D.C. a full half decade ago, quietly building a following on what started out as the relatively ambient sound of Jason Hutto’s electric piano and Laura Harris’ drums. Playing at lot of instrumental and somewhat atmospheric material, the music was the perfect complement to the films that were the band’s constant onstage accompaniment.

After four years of playing, the band finally found their way into Inner Ear Studios two summers ago to record their self-titled debut album for Dischord records, with the Dismemberment Plan’s Jason Caddell behind the boards. The result is easily the catchiest record in the entire Dischord catalog, instantly memorable melodies supported by Hutto’s bouncy piano and Hutto’s propulsive drumming. Hutto and Harris (the latter of which you may also recognize as the drummer in Benjy Ferree’s band, or from her other job working at the Black Cat) may not be as readily recognizable as yesterday’s Three Stars band, but what they do share share with Georgie James is a prodigious talent for getting a tune stuck in your head.

Photo by David Holloway.