High Llamas "Cold and Bouncy"

I listened to The High Llamas' "Cold and Bouncy" today. This is just an excellent collection of sweet pop songs.

I'm amazed at how the record is put together, and especially how it oozed into my consciousness. I mean, at first listen, it sounded to me like a 90's take on the Beach Boys' sound, using drum machines. And I really dislike drum machines. I wasn't impressed. But after several listens, I was singing along. The thematic material is very spare (but catchy), and the different themes have a sameness about them all, that is quite organic.

I've come to the conclusion that the excellent analog synths make up for the use of drum machines.

I can't say that I understand the lyrics, but I enjoy them. They're kind of like Mother Goose meets the Imagist poets. They're sufficiently child-like enough to perhaps not be too corny. If the songs were actually "about" anything, they might be in trouble. But it works.

Great melodies. Good sounds. Excellent arrangements. Compelling segueways between tunes. Strong lead vocals. I recommend it highly.