YOU SAY FRANCE & I WHISTLE
Angry Men
[SPV Recordings]
Verdict: 7/10
RIYL: Arcade Fire, Vampire Weekend, Rogue Wave

This is indie rock for those who aren’t “indie kids”. Instead of crafting a dense, concept-driven narrative that somehow revolves around the idea that humans are terrible people, YOU SAY FRANCE & I WHISTLE have decided to release an album that is so much fun, it’s buoyant. It will literally pick you up if you’re having a rough day. That band’s melodies are very upbeat; the lyrics are often ridiculous to the point that they’re not to be taken seriously. Try to not smile with how light and bubbly they convey the lyrics of “You’re a sexy mother****er” in “Animal”. It’s almost impossible. The rest of the album follows suit. “Prom Queens” is pure silly fun. “When Lovers Die” manages to stay positive about a break-up despite the subject matter. The only major issues are that the vocals are an acquired taste and that the silliness of the album can be eye-roll inducing if you are prone to taking life too seriously. The silliness is really the band’s strength, but the vocals took more than one listen to appreciate. Fans of indie rock will be at home, so it’s not a deciding factor against the band. All in all, this isn’t groundbreaking, once-in-a-lifetime music; it’s merely highly enjoyable indie rock that will put a smile on your face. Sometimes that alone is enough to make an album solid. – by Nicholas Senior

>> Recommended Listening: “Attaboy” and “Animal”
>> Release Date: January 20th, 2012
>> In Conclusion: Fans of indie rock who like their music less serious will certainly enjoy this offering. Catchy choruses and buoyant moods keep this effort light and enjoyable.