If there is one person I could pick at the forefront of power pop opinion, it’s IPO founder David Bash. The IPO festival is dedicated to bringing to the public the latest bands and unsigned talent, and next week he hits New York City (where I’ll make my annual pilgrimage). The festival’s 14th compilation has been out and it’s loaded (3 CDs worth) so I’ll highlight some of my favorite tracks…
Starting on disc 1 is one of the best new bands this year, The Turnback with the Beatlesque “Beyond Belief” and The Dahlmanns with “I Love You Baby (But I Hate Your Friends).” The latest David Myhr (Merrymakers) shimmering hit “Loveblind” is another highlight. Another great band, Nushu gives us the dreamy harmonies in “Precious To Me.”
On disc 2, the strong riffs of Bastards of Melody on “Dream Jeanine” won me over quickly. It was also nice to hear power pop veteran Jeremy Morris on the jangle-filled “Love Explosion” and the surprisingly strong “Back For More” by Dirty Royals really impressed me. Add to this the pounding beat and energy filled chorus of Fireking’s “Built to Last.”
On disc 3 we get the most eclectic mix of songs from the Hollies-styled pop of The Avenues “Should’ve Been Sarah” and gentle ballad “18 Floors” by Tim Reid. Our favorite Beach Girl Laurie Biagini gives us “One Track Mind” and Billy Idol-styled punk styled pop comes from Modern Day Heroes with “I Want You.” This is an instant power pop library of great new music that is highly recommended, so what are you waiting for? See you at IPO!
