Rating: NNN
Veteran New York power-poppers Fountains of Wayne moved to Yep Roc for their rootsy fifth album, which sounds a bit like the Kinks and Tom Petty filtered through 90s MTV rotation. Not so surprising, considering the band debuted in 1996.
Songwriters Chris Collingwood and Adam Schlesinger showcase their trademark storytelling, only this time their humour is less cutting. Even on standout Richie And Ruben, you feel a bit of empathy for the guys who do bad business with other people’s money. Musically and lyrically a summery driving album, Sky’s got references to vacations, oceans and train travel as well as an awkward, endearing country-tinged love song from the road.
FOW are best when turning everyday darkness into hooks, as on opener The Summer Place. No doubt they know to bury weaker material the last few songs are less memorable.
Top track: Richie And Ruben
