Frank Secich (Blue Ash, Stiv Bators) and Terry Hartman (Backdoor Men) are complimented by the outstanding musicianship of Pete Drivere and John Koury (both of Infidels fame) formed the Deadbeat Poets in 2007 with the debut album “Notes From The Underground.” Now the follow-up release is finally here. The sound is cleaner, the compositions are tighter, and harmonies more refined. They fly out of the gate with “Elvin Dabney Professional Thief” a intricate melodic composition with multiple hooks. And they rock pretty strong on The Kinks-like “People These Days” and “The Staircase Stomp” makes good use of the carnival organ to help set the atmosphere. Another winner is the epic guitar jangle of “Madras Man” and it’s the rare pop song where six minutes seems too short. Some fast paced pop like “At Least It Worked Out For You” will please fans of The Romantics and The Cars for sure. The band pulls out the steel pedal guitar on “So, This Is Indiana” a mid tempo theme that sounds like a pop travelogue of the state. The shifts in the albums tone on the second half are a bit jarring, like the rock opera styled “Murder in The Choir” to the country rock rhythm of “Sunglass City.” These songs are all highly polished rock gems that pack plenty of imagery in the lyric, and makes repeat listens necessary. Come visit the “Circus Town” and stay awhile.
