GLADHANDS - La Di Da *****
Well, I can start by saying that this review is long overdue since this fantastic album has been out for several months already. Chances are you probably won't find it between Garbage and the Goo Goo Dolls at your typical corporate-monger music store, but it's well worth the effort if it can be tracked down. (See the noted resources at the end of this review). Although you wouldn't know it from listening to the album, the Gladhands are hardly a "band". Comprised solely of Guitarist/Vocalist (and sometimes Bassist) Jeff Carlson and Drummer/Vocalist Doug Edmunds, this North Carolina duo has churned out a crisp batch of thoroughly listenable and tight power-pop tunes on their latest release.
The comparisons are hard to pinpoint, but La-Di-Da evokes a range of influences from the pure pop sensibilities of the Beatles and Big Star, to the quirkiness of Canada's Sloan to flat-out classic rock stylings of Badfinger and the Stones. The result of this interesting mix is virtually perfect; the tunes never stray into musical duldrum nor does the band's smart pop acumen come across as unapproachable or pretentious.
Although nearly every track on La Di Da is a musical gem, standout tunes include the opener "Kill 'em With Kindness" a full-force power pop treat with a perfect balance of guitar-edge and soaring harmonies, the catchy, clap-along ode to Al & Tipper's offspring "Gore Girls (Gimme More)" and the memorable, groove-tinged "Albatross". This album is a must for any serious pop connoisseur.
La-Di-Da is released through Big Deal Records - PO Box 2072 Peter Stuyvesant Station, New York, NY 10009-9998 (bigdealnyc@aol.com) and can also be purchased through NotLame Recordings: www.notlame.com