fun. fun. fun. !!

‘Be Calm’

It’s New Years bloody Eve, why are you reading this instead of rolling around in a puddle of vomit, cheap whiskey and party-popper innards? That is what fun is all about isn’t it?

Well not quite.

When pianist Andrew Dost quit superb Chicago indie ensemble Anathallo in 2009 (leaving them with a mere 7 members), one might have been forgiven for thinking his next musical move would be in the same pensive, sombre vein. One, in this instance, couldn’t have been more wrong.

Teaming up with Nate Ruess, formerly of The Format, and Jack Antonoff, still of Steel Train, Dost is now involved in an unlikely, yet surprisingly successful, supergroup: fun. (yes, full stop in the title).

Their debut album, Aim and Ignite couldn’t be a further cry from Floating World, Dost’s last record with Anathallo. It can only be described as what the Beach Boys, or even Queen, might have sounded like if Weezer’s power-pop had been one of their influences. At a fairground.

The first time I heard the opening track, Be Calm, I was somewhat overwelmed by the corucopia of instruments, melodies and ideas being thrown at me. Ruess’ voice is also outstanding; ranging from quivering hushed tones to half-screamed highs.  Other highlights are the the afro beat ditty, Walking the Dog, and the plush trumpet and harmonies in I Wanna be the One.

However, talking of highlights in such a consistently brilliant album just seems silly. Just buy it; it will be the best, most fun. £7.99 you ever part with.

Just ask this audience:

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