Search - The Churchills :: Big Ideas

"Big Ideas" should make Big Impact

George Crocco | Milford, CT | 12/24/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I've been a CHURCHILLS fan since the first moment I heard "Beautiful", the opening track off of their 2000 release entitled "You Are Here." In an era when a lot of "rock" sounds more like rap and "country" sounds more like pop, a trip to the local CD store can turn into a downright frightening experience. Maybe I'm just getting older, but I find myself running back to my high school record collection more and more often these days. The Churchills are one exception to that rule. With them, I can have the kind of sounds I enjoy and still feel like some young, hip (do people even say "hip" anymore?) dude who's on the cutting edge of the music scene! Actually, I coaxed myself out of an early semi-retirement from writing reviews only for the fact that I heard they had a new album out. Half a minute into their latest effort, "Big Ideas", and I remembered why I dig this band so much. The opening guitar riff of "Lights Are On But No One's Home" gives a first impression of some young modern rock band. A closer listen, however, reveals complex harmonies and chord structures (courtesy of Ron Haney & Bart Schoudel) and clever rhythm changes (Alex Smolinski)... evidence of a well-crafted and unique musical style. Their infectious hooks are reminiscent of the 1980's more melodic groups (Squeeze, Split Enz, etc.), but with a vibe that's commercial enough to deserve heavy rotation on Top-40 radio stations nationwide. "Close My Eyes" is the tune that's stuck in my head at the moment, and the year's Best Ballad Award would go to "Smile." It's sung with a perfect vocal delivery that requires none of the overdub-laden production techniques so favored by many of today's recording artists.One of their lyrics goes, "She thinks I'm a star..." Well folks, she may not be far from the truth. I plan on seeing a lot more of this band in the near future. Happy listening..."

Unsung Power Pop for 2002!!

saddyboy | indianapolis, in United States | 12/26/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"their major label debut, 'You Are Here', showed the group advanced songwriting and pop savvy. the new 'Big Ideas' is even better...a leap forward in both their pop and rock sides have elevated a good band into a great one...they may not be on a major label anymore, but 'Big Ideas' is a major follow up and one great record...r.i.y.l. Cloud Eleven, the Flashing Lights, Matthew Sweet, the Posies, Teenage Fanclub"