The Athens, GA quartet Modern Skirts got very good reviews on their debut in 2005, but the new album draws you in with their sunny harmonies, well-placed strings, understated keyboards and quirky lyrics concerning matters of the heart. The opening track “Chanel” will appeal to fans of Field Music and the lighter side of Phantom Planet. The gentle single “Soft Petals” is a tuneful distraction with a melancholy hue to the spacious production. The standout here is the Ben Folds Five-like “Radio Breaks” a wonderful hook filled gem with a glorious piano melody. The next song, “Yugo” ambles along to a truly beautiful chorus that recalls Adrian Whitehead’s studied lush pop sweetness. Lead singer Jay Gulley has mentioned “It’s all about the song, not about trying to sound cool or show off on your instrument, it’s trying to get stuck in people’s heads.” And these tracks do stick. But at the albums mid point, it concentrates more on quirky novelty productions like the sparse Harper’s Bizarre feel of “Astronauts” and faux Billy Bragg-like “Motorcade.” Other songs here don’t approach the genius of the album’s first half, but aren’t bad at all, especially the emotional ballad “Mrs.” and the hopeful group hug that is “Eveready” with it’s combo of distorted guitar and piano solo. No doubt worth more than a casual listen.