CD of The Week

Coming off their ironically titled first album Never Trust a Happy Song and a constant schedule of touring and recording, Grouplove has seen great reception amongst both the indie rock crowd and the general public, in part due to their biggest hit, “Tongue Tied,” which appeared in a number of ads and was a fixture on Y-Not Radio. Almost exactly two years after releasing their debut album, Grouplove is back again with Spreading Rumors, produced again by the band’s drummer, Ryan Rabin (son of Yes’ Trevor Rabin). Their sophomore offering brings a varied palette of songs that showcases the bands eclectic versatility within the indie pop/rock spectrum with an increasing electronic emphasis. The band approach their famous infectious, toe-tapping melodies and beats in a more sophisticated way.

At the forefront of this new record is Rabin’s careful production work in incorporating a heavier sound that features the use of more guitars and synths. This change begins straight away with the opening tune, “I’m With You,” who’s slow progression of dark, yet hopeful synths, doesn’t reach the signature vocals of singer Christian Zucconi until about the just after the two minute mark. Another interesting sonic combination with great second single potential comes in “Shark Week.” With a steel drum beginning, pounding deep synth in the background, a contagious dance club beat and lyrics like “I met somebody in a sea of people and that’s just what I believe in,” the band is sure to have found a crowd pleaser in this about the search for life’s wants and needs. Guitar heavy tracks like “Borderlines and Aliens,” “Schoolboy,” and “What I Know” give listeners an all-access pass to the rockier side of Grouplove, highlighted by the vocals of Zucconi and Hannah Hooper. “Save The Party For Me,” a great slow acoustic ballad ends the album nicely and really completes the set of songs that make up Spreading Rumors. Lyrically throughout the album, the band conveys simple messages with simple words, often in a metaphorical fashion, reflecting band members who’d rather be “hipp(ies) than hipster(s).”

In Spreading Rumors, their quirky, catchy sound has gracefully evolved but maintained the same essence that is to be expected from Grouplove. The album is a welcomed opposition to the cooling weather of fall; its happy, elctro sounds are sure to brighten any brisk fall day ahead and stay engrained in your mind for days. The fact that Grouplove have sold out both Union Transfer on September 28 and their special acoustic performance two nights later at Underground Arts is a testament to the group’s ability to maintain a constant touring schedule and their fans’ commitment to their unique brand of indie music. Those in attendance surely won’t be disappointed.

Donate $15 or more to Y-Not Radio this week to receive a download of Spreading Rumours as our thank you gift. Click here for details.