Southend-on-Sea is known for its fine fish & chips and for having the longest pier in the world. And I should know. I grew up there. In recent times a number of bands have emerged from the shadow of the pier, putting Southend firmly on the musical map.

First the Horrors entertained us with their pointy shoes, backcombed hair, and frantic take on Nick Cave’s early career. Now These New Puritans have surfaced, with singer Jack Barnett throwing a few Ian Curtis-esque shapes over a musical mêlée that marries early Fall with the clanging guitars of Sonic Youth. They even stir in a little grime/dubstep influence on standout track “Swords of Truth.”

Domino released These New Puritans’ debut, Beat Pyramid, a month ago, and it already stands proudly alongside Southend classics such as Procol Harum’s “A Whiter Shade of Pale” and Dr. Feelgood’s “Back in the Night.” Sadly, the Famous Potatoes were unavailable for comment. These New Puritans are celebrating the release of Beat Pyramid with a U.S. tour, full dates below:

6/5 Washington, D.C, DC9
6/6 Philadelphia, PA, Making Time
6/8 Brooklyn, NY, Music Hall of Williamsburg
6/9 Boston, MA, Great Scott
6/11 Montreal, PQ, L'Ambi
6/12 Toronto, ON, The Reverb (NXNE showcase)
6/13 Columbus, OH, Wexner Center
6/14 Chicago, IL, Subterranean
6/16 Seattle, WA, Chop Suey
6/17 Portland, OR, Doug Fir Lounge
6/19 San Francisco, CA, Popscene
6/21 Los Angeles, CA, Echoplex