Aqua - My Mamma Said

"Mamma just cross to the parallel world"

Even after twelve years, I'm still convinced that Aqua's Aquarium is one of the best euro-pop albums ever released. Sure, the group pretty much defines "cheesy" and are known in the States primarily for their novelty hit Barbie Girl (not their finest moment, though undeniably catchy and--dare I say it--classic). Their follow-up was a big disappointment for me, but I'm glad they're back with a greatest hits. The new tracks are a real return to form and proof that they should release a new album of original material asap. I find My Mamma Said to be especially interesting. It's a mid-tempo/dance track (you'll understand when you hear it) with a somber sound and a particularly nice melody. The male vocals aren't even that annoying. In fact, they're pretty darn good. The lyrics are a bit of a downer, but it's an interesting choice of subject for this type of band.

(Music posted for evaluation purposes only. If you like what you hear, support the artists. Buy their debut here.)

Bolland & Bolland - Heaven Can Wait

"Don't be surprised if I'm gonna be late"

I posted a mid-eighties Bolland & Bolland track a few months ago, but I've been listening to their fantastic 1981 nuclear-war-synth-pop-opera-concept-album The Domino Theory a lot lately so I thought I would post another track from this little known band today. Heaven Can Wait is probably the danciest, poppiest song on the album, despite tying in lyrically with the whole nuclear war story. The chorus on this one is massive and instantly catchy. I love pop songs that sound absolutely bubbly and straightforward, but are actually really dark underneath the surface. Heaven Can Wait begins with a soldiers' march and ends with a round of bullets, but everything in between is total pop bliss.

(Music posted for evaluation purposes only. If you like what you hear, support the artists. Buy the album here.)

Jonas Brothers - Much Better

"Now I'm done with superstars"

Hell has frozen over. I never imagined that I'd end up posting a Jonas Brothers track on this blog. I'd tried to get into their music in the past but never really succeeded. I just don't understand the popularity. I mean, I get that they're teen idols (a position that's been around forever), but aren't there better candidates? Maybe not, because their new album is actually... impressive. Their sound has shifted (more horns, more experimentation with genres, and all-around better songwriting). Much Better is downright stunning. As with most of the album, it's very 70's influenced--a sparkling mid-tempo disco track at odds with the sharpness of its lyrics. Apparently it's about Taylor Swift (to which I say... who cares?), but it comes across as a perfect summer (should-be)single. I am stunned that I like this album so much. Jonas detractors, check it out and see if you feel the same.

(Music posted for evaluation purposes only. If you like what you hear, support the artists. Buy the album here.)