- Artist
- Fountains Of Wayne
- Label
- Virgin
- Release date
- 16th July 2007
- Genre
- Indie rock
Disappointing lack of both substance and progression on fifth album from ironic American guitar popsters
It’s always been hard to fathom who US indie four-piece Fountains Of Wayne are aimed at. Their light, radio-friendly guitar pop has always been a bit too quirky and ironic to ensnare the young Busted/McFly fans whose ears might have been pricked by breakthrough hit (and its saucy video) Stacey’s Mum. What’s more, songwriters Adam Schlesinger and Chris Collingwood and co. are kind of getting on a bit. Conversely, their arch take on the genre, plus innuendo-laden lyrics and pastiche-led compositions sound too saccharine on initial listening to grab the older, more discerning music fan.
And although such a quandary can be rendered redundant when it comes to good pop music, it remains for this fifth album – meaning any sort of progression is severely lacking. Opener Someone To Love’s new-wave feel and bouncy indie-disco chorus stands out for its (relative) attempt at a diversion in sound and tale of love in the city. However, for much of Traffic…, tired old Fountains themes are dredged up (stoners, small town geeks) and choruses let themselves down throughout a procession of sterile, teeth-grindingly jaunty pop goo. Coming four years after their previous album, you’d think they’d be aiming much higher than this.
More to try: Weezer: Weezer (Green Album) Randy Newman: Little Criminals The Cars: The Cars
