eMusic Review 0
From the first driving drum beat straight through to the last song's final notes, the debut from California's Army Navy shines. Resembling an updated Teenage Fanclub or a hyperactive Death Cab for Cutie, the group's catchy melodies inspire singing along before the words can even be learned. The album packs a mighty punch — every song's a perfect single. "Dark As Days" showcases sparkling guitars and dreamy harmonies, while "Unresponsive Ears" employs a glockenspiel to punctuate the steady rhythm guitar. The drumming, courtesy of Attractions drummer Steve Thomas, is critical, lending a kind of frenetic energy to songs like "Snakes of Hawaii." The band does slow it down, ever so slightly, for a few songs: "Ignite," "Golden Pony" and "In the Lime" highlight Army Navy's knack for beautiful harmonies. The final track, a fun and rocking version of Maxine Nightingale's 1976 hit "Get Right Back (Where We Started From)" emphasizes the original's juicy hook and call-and-response harmonies. Army Navy is music with hooks to hold on to, with layers and surprises that continue to charm with repeated listens.