THE TATTLE TALES - Hearts In Tune CD

Musically, Hearts In Tune is a varied and remarkably consistent effort. “September Girls” just might be the best pop song ever (could any mortal craft a catchier melody?), but it’s just one of many should-be hits. “Unconditionally” is jaunty modern powerpop with a chorus to die for. “So Wanna Kiss You” is sunny, high-spirited alterna-pop a la that dog’s “Never Say Never” (I had to double-check the album credits to make sure that wasn’t actually Anna Waronker singing!). “Austin Boys” is an emotionally-charged amalgamation of Pet Sounds and the blue album. “Oh, God!” mixes Foo Fighters-ish heavy rock with gorgeous, splendidly-crafted melodies. “Her New Company” delivers a melody I can’t stop whistling. And as is the case with all the best pop, the small details really seal the deal: note the dandy piano hook at the beginning of “Sweater” or the great little guitar lick that makes “September Girls” so irresistible. Top-rate pop is always the product of exceptional craftsmanship, and The Tattle Tales are masters of the form.

While some are happy to discount the great pop bands that have littered the musical landscape over the last 50 odd years, The Tattle Tales embrace bands like the Beach Boys, the Zombies, Elvis Costello, Green Day and Weezer with their collective arms and pause with them in a heart-warming group hug that’s a little bit cloy, but never uncomfortable for anyone.

Track Listing:

01. Lucky Girl (2:04)
02. Unconditionally (2:13)
03. Armageddon Girl (2:45)
04. Austin Boys (3:46)
05. One Lawn Away (2:30)
06. Oh, God (3:54)
07. So Wanna Kiss You (2:42)
08. Sweater (3:41)
09. Evelyn (3:06)
10. September Girls (5:13)
11. When I Get To Heaven (4:38)
12. Her New Company (3:53)