Mike Kinsella, Steve Lamos, and Steve Holmes formed American Football in 1997, and the trio released this eponymous debut album in 1999 (not to be confused with the group's 2016 and 2019 albums, also self-titled). Sad guitar picks meld with emotive lyrics and an overall downcast atmosphere, with the Illinois group's experimentations with uncommon time signatures adding an extra layer of melancholic charm to the 9 tracker. Check out "Never Meant," "The Summer Ends," "Honestly," "For Sure," and "I'll See You When We're both Not So Emotional," especially recommended if you're getting through a breakup or reminiscing about your first love that ripped your heart apart or whatever…
