Lamar Holley “Lo-Fi”
Lamar Holley created one of the best power pop albums ever on Confessions of A College Student, and this year Holley has decided to focus on some early concept material. Lo-Fi is a mixed bag of smart pop with a Broadway flair and early demos. A few tracks have the same melodic genius displayed in Confessions, notably the the opener “Jack Loves Julie” with a Smile-styled orchestration, and the vocal harmonics sparkle on the chorus of “It’s Amazing,” a collaboration with Mark Plummer. The songs are mini-dramas and even through the crude four-track production of “Sorry Charlie” you hear the inventive composition and compelling story. Comparisons to Ben Folds (with a child’s POV) are inevitable on piano tracks like “Genius” and “Amelia.” The problem with some tracks is that they beg to be fleshed out (“Johnny in School”) and the crude demo quality detracts from the listening experience. Like an artist’s sketch book you’ll find a gems among the assorted songs and musical snippets but also an overall appreciation of Lamar’s considerable talents.
MySpace | Lamar’s Website
The Boolevards “More Real Pop”
If you loved The Boolevards debut Real Pop, then you are in for another power pop treat. Seventeen more tracks that feature classic 70’s power pop composition with that distinct Rickenbacker jangle. “Roxanna” sets the pace, with tight drum fill between choruses and melodic hooks that do the job just perfectly. “Beat The Clock” features two part vocal harmonies & those background oohs and aahs, fans of The Rubinoos are sure to love. “Little Miss Impossible” goes back to the band’s Merseybeat roots, mimicking “Twist and Shout” and “Ships Passing” continues to brings to mind that simple nostalgic mid-tempo sound. The production seems better here than on the first album, and the songwriting is just as sharp. A variety of tempos also help make this album better. Fans of both Beatlesque and skinny tie pop genres will enjoy this, so fans of The Romantics, The Flashcubes, Scruffs, The Poppees, Sorrows and The Offbeat can come together on this one.
MySpace | CD Baby | Not Lame | Kool Kat Musik