The O’nders “That Thing We Done”
A group of Sydney Australia musicians who love power pop got together and put out an album full of their favorite tunes. You gotta love the group name and title, an aussie accented play on The Wonders. This is put out by Michael Carpenters’ Big Radio Records label and it’s one of those releases that reminds me of singing in the shower, it’s fun and easy to sing along to. It’s played live with loving confidence and full of favorites from The Who (“The Kids Are Alright”), Supergrass (“Alright”), Big Star (“In The Street”), Jellyfish (“Joining A Fanclub”) and many more. With 17 tracks it’s a huge selection of excellent songs right now only available as a Bandcamp download. The vocal duties are a mixed bag, where some shine (“I’ll Feel Whole Lot Better”) and others flop, it will not make anyone forget the original recordings but this is clearly a labor of love. On another Carpenter note: Fans interested will want to sign up for The Incomplete Cuban Heels pre-order at Michael’s blog. Each subscription earns an advance album copy and tons of bonus stuff depending on your level of sponsorship.
Goodnight Monsters “Summer Challenge”
Charming pop band from Finland brings us a loose collection of songs that take influences from The Beach Boys, Teenage Fanclub and early Elephant Six groups. “Hanging On To A Bad Dream” is a great single with a bouncy chorus and soft harmonies. “First One On The Beach” has the surf guitar and sunny sound of the Wilson brothers down pat. The band’s approach isn’t that aggressive but songs are tuneful, like the Belle and Sebastian twee pop of “Keep Me As A Secret” and the measured beats of “Mockingbird.” Lead singer Matti Jasu pens many of the poppier tunes. The jangling guitars and catchy “April Fooling” is my favorite here and full of unabashed pop goodness. “Le Beat De Jacques Lapin” (aka “Jackrabbit Stomp”) is another retro-60’s dance number that shines. Overall a warm and jangly album that offers some cool refreshment on a summer day.
My Space | CDBaby
Been digging The O'Neders album for the last week. A lot of fun!