A little gem
Joseph Geni | Evanston, Illinois United States | 10/13/2006
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This is a delicate, inventive and appealing record all at once. Psapp, they of the unpronouncable band name, love their trinkets, shakers, rubber duckies and finger pianos almost as much as they love cats. The latter love becomes extremely apparent if you view their website, their myspace page, their music videos or the cover art of their second album "The Only Thing I Ever Wanted" (which is also a quality release, though I slightly prefer this one). The former affection is eminently apparent just from listening to this record.
"Tiger My Friend" is built upon soft, whimsical vocals, intricate but unassuming arrangements, light percussion, catchy melodies, and some blip electro which is way more accessible than your usual blip electro. The variety makes it a winner across a broad spectrum of music listeners. I've played Psapp tracks for indie fans and folkrock fans and electronica fans (and, of course, Grey's Anatomy fans) and they've been a hit everywhere. This is kinda the Princess Bride of albums. Nobody hates it, and for some people it quickly becomes just about their favorite thing out there. Psapp has carved out a very distinctive niche in the music scene--something that's not easy to do these days--and you should give this record a whirl.
Album highlights: Rear Moth, Calm Down, Velvet Pony, About Fun, and the title track."
Fantastic
Alexander Weaver | newport news, va | 01/30/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Not since Kidz Bop's performance of "L.E.N. - Steal My Sunshine" ("Kelly Clarkson - Since U Been Gone" has nothing on that song!) has a band transcended so many age groups. Psapp will put any child in a glazed trance with their hypnotizing beats and melodies. "Leaving In Coffins" could replace any music box or mobile. Adults will be intrigued by the duo's ability to intertwine so many different sounds and romantically sung lyrics into a warm piece of Electronica.
As the you progress through the album, you will be surprised as each song is as varied as the next while mantaining its cozy mood. "About Fun" utilizes a rubber duck as Galia Durant, the band's singer, uses her lulling voice to seduce whoever is listening. "Chapter" is one of the most subtle break-up songs in recent history with its minimalist sound. Grey's Anatomy recognizes the illusive lustfulness "Cosy in the Rocket" projects by using it as the show's main theme. The only song that does not work is "Velvet Pony" whose various elements, such as a locker opening, a bell, sly lyrics, do not manage to create a cohesive and capturing song.
Slide this album in while your cleaning the house and watch the minutes fly by. Press the play button before you go to bed and be lulled into a peaceful sleep. Put it in your car and bforget all about five o'clock traffic. Or just sit and marvel at Psapp's amazing multifaceted ability to make a beautiful album.
Grade : A (95)
Download : Psapp - About Fun, Psapp - Cosy in the Rocket, Psapp - Leaving in Coffins, Psapp - Tiger, My Friend, Psapp - Chapter
Skip It : Psapp - Velvet Pony"