Herzog/Shale Satans/Queen Buzz/Ma Holos

Since 2011’s Search, Herzog’s sound has only expanded and built out a refreshing and patently “Cleveland” take on indie fuzz rock. This year’s offering, the north shore motorcycle drive-by Boys is one of the best local cuts of 2014. “Theme for Boys” became something of an anthem this summer, what with its stringed sludge psychedelia and slacker-glam vocals. Similarly, tunes like “Henchman” and “Satan is Real” massage the musical ideas first shot into the world by frontman Nick Tolar all those years ago. The guitar thrills are strewn about with abandon, and the album’s overall vibe revolves around alternating upbeat and melancholic reflections on early adulthood. (Sandy)