Paul Westerburg, former frontman for The Replacements, has finally released this mix of upbeat pop and sweet love songs. Suicaine Gratifacation is a smooth ride as each song gently melts into the next. Westerburg’s rich voice lulls you into the album and the longing in his lyrics hooks you. The sunny feel to many of the songs is balanced by the bittersweet lyrical twists that they contain. “Whatever Makes You Happy” and “Best Thing That Never Happened” are prime examples of this idea.
The good old electric guitar plays an important part on this album with many songs having a seemingly Tom Petty sound. However, it is the piano that makes the lilting “Self Defense” irresistible. “It’s A Wonderful Lie” also stands out with its country smack of acoustic guitar.
The love songs on this album are filled with yearning and emotion. “Born For Me” is sugary and sad all at once. Suicaine Gratification is the album for that melancholy rainy day you want to spend at home lost in thought.
+ tricia crafts
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