With the help of The Spongetones alum Jamie Hoover, Frank Royster produces his most accessible and catchy album yet. Like a rogue Wilbury, the infectious opener “Mr. Wonderful” has everything a power pop fan could possibly want. Royster’s vocals are full of character, like a mix of John Popper and Randy Newman – and often double tracked to smooth out the rough spots. Unlike his first album, the classic pop influences are more pronounced here like the up tempo Beatlesque “She’s Not Alone” and the slight country bend of “Can’t Make Me Smile.” The songs all have smart harmonies and catchy hooks that stick like glue, a big highlight is the lyrically touching “Brena You,” with it’s Billy Joel styled pounding piano chords. Every song has that fab guitar jangle from “Oh Mary” to the cover of “Every Little Thing” and it just doesn’t get old. This is out on Kool Kat Musik’s label and comes with a bonus disc filled with demo and acoustic tracks. A real triumph that should be savored again and again.
