My first exposure to the Kills was at Coachella '04 or maybe '05. They were the first band I saw all day, and it was like walking into the party and immediately having someone throw a splash of tequila down my throat.

Since then, I have always thought they were on the cusp of making a great album. Always wanted it. They are a ferocious live band and couldn't be cooler, but truth is, it just wasn't quite there in the studio.

Well, I think they finally made the leap. The songwriting on Blood Pressures is stronger and the sound fuller (see 'Future Starts Slow' and 'Damned If She Do'), but without sacrificing any of that sneering, visceral energy. The difference-maker, though, is a few well-timed curveballs to tie all the rockers together ('Wild Charms,' 'The Last Goodbye,' 'Pots and Pans').

Then there's this, probably my favorite thing the Kills have ever done.

Whoops. This one snuck up on me. Well, anyway, I gave you my spiel last year. Show some love, people.

Here is Pitchfork's rundown of all the special releases and in-store performances, plus other helpful links.

I'm hoping to grab the Wild Beasts' "Albatross" 7", the James Blake vinyl release, and the Trash Talk / Wavves split 7"!