Chris Richards is one of the Midwest’s finest power pop stars and he continues to dazzle us on Get Yer La La’s Out. Both veterans, bassist Todd Holmes and drummer Larry Grodsky join in the fun. On the opener “Don’t Do Anything Tonight” is rich in jangling rhythm, driving melody full of memorable hooks. Fans of REM, Tommy Keene, Sloan and Teenage Fanclub will gleefully soak it all in. The next several tracks “It’s Something” and “And Suddenly” continue this pure pop bliss. The entire album follows this template, and although we are missing a slower song, or ballad you may not notice. This is guitar pop heaven, as the riffs on “Head Under Water” ring in your head.
There is a slight danger of songs sounding too similar, but the composition and tone changes keep things fresh. On “December” the band takes more of a hard rock approach and “Uncertainly” is a rousing finale that recalls Squeeze with Chris’ vocal even sounding like Glenn Tilbrook at times. Turn up the stereo and blast this one, summer’s here in a big way!
It just flat out rocks.
Thanks for reviewing this. I agree! Great album…I, too, think there is a slight danger of sameness to a few of the songs. But that trait diminishes with repeated listenings.
Hi all Powerpop fans,
You can get a pre-order a special limited addition of Get Yer La La’s out on WHITE VINYL at http://www.chrisrichardsandthesubtractions.com.
This will feature one bonus track not on CD, “Dogs” by the Who. As a bonus, all pre-orders will receive an immediate digital download of Get Yer La La’s Out!
And remember, a powerpop a day (or two), keeps the old age away.
Much love – Justin