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The lush instrumentation and arrangements carry the incisive lyrics like a deep blue velvet cushion holding a surgical scalpel. The songs on this concept album seem to be coming out in real time, making more sense tomorrow than they did yesterday.
With incisive lyrics intertwined with unexpected arrangements, the band is in fine form, serving as a bittersweet soundtrack for changing weather, complementing both the sunshine and the rain but especially the part where one changes into the other.
The matchup of pub-rock king Nick Lowe and masked instrumental raiders Los Straitjackets might seem like a weird one-off joyride, but Lowe's wise croon has intersected with their sparkling backing many times, and this may be their best effort yet.
Solid guitar and keyboard pop, on the gentle dreamy side, with whispery singing and sharp arrangements.
Smart guitar pop never goes out of style, and sharp lyrics make it all the better.
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