On their full-length debut, The Summertimes deliver a whole lot of something I'll never tire of: catchy, tuneful, and well-constructed pop songs. The Australian outfit features the songwriting tandem of David Beniuk and David Challenger (of Merry Widows fame) working alongside veteran players Ashley Naylor (Paul Kelly and The Church), Stephen O'Brien (Tumbleweed), and Steve Bull (Icehouse). The album captures the feel of '80s/'90s college radio power pop without coming across as stuck in the past. Even with all these big names involved (including renowned producer Paul McKercher), it's truly the songs that stand out. Both writers contribute thoughtful, melodious songs with stellar hooks. And while some of the more straight-forward power pop tunes like "Inside" and "Password" are obvious highlights, The Summertimes are far from one-trick ponies. "Wakes Up Shadows" has me recalling the heyday of "adult alternative" rock, and I mean that in the most complimentary way. "Where the Lights Hit the Square" and "Sky and the Sea" are truly excellent ballads — never the easiest thing to pull off. "My Beautiful Girl Harbour," a love song to the city of Sydney, could slide seamlessly into a Teenage Fanclub playlist. The jangly "Love (It's The Word)" is truly an anthem for our times — an appeal to grace and kindness at a moment when rancor and cruelty are widely worshipped. Album closer "The Perfect Wave" is a surfy rocker with a uniquely Aussie flavor.
The debut album from The Summertimes is a real treat for fans of melody-driven guitar pop. The "two Davids" excel not just at crafting hummable melodies and memorable choruses but also at writing genuinely interesting lyrics which reflect on everything from unrequited love to multinational capitalism to toxic masculinity to optimism in the face of struggle. Mixing personal storytelling with social commentary, both songwriters are relatable, engaging, and exceptionally skilled at their craft. With its high-quality songs, stellar musicianship, and silky-smooth harmonies, this is the kind of album I will always go back to. Get it on LP or CD from Rank and File Records!
1 comment:
Brilliant album. Great jangly pop tunes. Get around The Summertimes.
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