Fountains of Wayne – Utopia Parkway

Artist: Fountains of Wayne

Title: Utopia Parkway

Label: Atlantic

Rating: 8/10

These guys have written fourteen of the coolest pop songs I’ve heard in a while. The ’60’s are back and Fountains Of Wayne are taking us there.

The first three songs on Utopia Parkway take the route of pop glee. They are all potential radio hits, but “Hat And Feet” is really hip and psychedelic, a musical time warp. The swish and twinkle of the guitar is hypnotic. “The Valley Of Malls” is fresh out of the land of the Zombies with the subtle riffs and tooting organ. You’ll find yourself exhilarated by its freshness and lack of cynicism.

“Troubled Times” reminds me a bit of The Rembrandts, but these guys have more than just one hit song in them. The song slows down with a hint of the Hollies. “Go, Hippie” is Oasis crossbred with Pink Floyd; the screaming wah puts your head on a swivel and spins. The nasal verses are actually better than the chorus. “Fine Day For A Parade” is more pop madness. “Laser Show” is a big bopping rock song that sounds like “Back In The U.S.S.R.” covered by the Rasberries.

These guys have reinvented the ’60’s sound. God bless them.

+ cc