Songs for the summer

Header image for Interrobang article CREDIT: SMALLPOOLS
LOVETAP! is the debut album by Smallpools, an indie band that draws inspiration - and sounds - from bands like Vampire Weekend to The Arctic Monkeys. That doesn't mean it's not a good listen, though.

Smallpools is a new indie pop band based out of Los Angeles, and it’s a must-have for any quintessential summer playlist. The band’s debut album LOVETAP! was released on March 24, appropriately welcoming the warmer weather. Or maybe this album is what brought about the warm weather. Either way, these indie pop stars will have you dancing in no time. If you’re a fan of bands like Two Door Cinema Club, fun. or Passion Pit, you’re in for a treat.

LOVETAP! sounds like a familiar album, while still retaining a sense of originality. It’s catchy straight from the get go, effortlessly blending alternative rock and alternative dance music. The guitars and synthesizers complement each other beautifully with vocals that resemble something similar to Nate Ruess of the band fun.

Although there isn’t much here in terms of lyrical complexity, that’s not to say that the lyrics aren’t good. The album is full of vocal hooks and feel-good melodies as well as a few chuckle-worthy lines such as, “Pick me up and we’ll make shit up as we go” from “Karaoke.” Unless you analyzed these lyrics closely, you’d never know they were sad love songs, because the sad bits are all hidden in between anthemic choruses.

There isn’t truly a low point in this album. It’s all cheery, up-beat and feel-good music, and it’s hard to criticize something like that. The only place that LOVETAP! may find fault is in its likeness to other bands, which is actually quite a remarkable list.

While drawing on influence from the danceable synthesizers of Passion Pit on a number of songs, the band also draws on influences from bands like Vampire Weekend in “9 to 5” and fun. in “Dyin’ to Live” and “Over & Over.” Each song on this album carries earmarks from other artists ranging from The Killers to Arctic Monkeys. It’s not often that something so close to being a copycat is actually such a thoroughly enjoyable experience. LOVETAP! is perhaps the best mash up album this year.

LOVETAP! is littered with highpoints and summer anthems from beginning to end. Music perfect for road trips, beach days, workouts and backyard bonfires. “Dreaming,” “Karaoke” and “9 to 5” all hold first place status on this album for their memorable hooks and effortless fusion of acoustic instruments with electronic dance music.

No matter what people say about Smallpools, you can’t deny that these boys aren’t talented songwriters.

Rating: 3 1/2 out of 5