Sincere, Intelligent Songwriting with the Skilled Musicianship to Back It Up
author: Mike Mihalik, Seattle, WA
Where can you find an album full of songs with catchy hooks that also comments on such topics as dysfunctional relationships, Hamlet-like inaction, and depression? Add some social and political commentary, throw in a love song about not being able to write a love song (sung completely in French), and you’ve got the latest album from the Cocktail Revisionists, “This Is My Happy Face”.
As can be expected from this talented Seattle-area band, “This Is My Happy Face” has sharp, witty lyrics overlaid on melodies and harmonies that may seem deceptively straightforward, but expose depths of complexity upon multiple listenings. You’ll find yourself humming Cocktail Revisionists songs waiting in line at the bank, doing laundry, or sitting in front of your computer at work trying to get through a mountain of e-mail.
“This Is My Happy Face” is an example of what we should all demand from our music–sincere, intelligent songwriting with the skilled musicianship to back it up.
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A Triumphant Return!
author: MJ
This is My Happy Face showcases the growth and musical dexterity of a truly talented group of musicians. The songwriting is superb, recording quality is excellent and the guest musicians are a true treat (A wonderfully played and recorded cello is featured in songs such as 'Things will Change', sometimes (presumably unintentionally) providing the hook and the foundation of the song (check out ‘Skin and Bone’).
The intro to 'This Little Hell' exemplify the quick witted yet experienced production talent we have come to expect from CR, especially if you have followed the bands previous releases, all of which have been self produced.
Mastered by Mark Guenther at Seattle Disc Mastering (credited for working with many bands influential to the Seattle sound) and complete with professional photography replication and packaging, the CD is set to succeed in the retail environment without a hitch.
Though my heart is still with the bands first release 'Non-Specific Gravity' (if you just bought this CD and want to hear more, I highly recommend this debut release), what grabs me most about TIMHF is the way they pull off pop, punk and even straight rock without a flinch, all the while remaining true to the signature simplicity that is trademark of all CR releases.
-MJ Hays
Big If Records
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