Huntingtons

Item: Songs in the Key of You
Author: Travis Persaud

Songs in the Key of You

(2001)

Reviewed by Travis Persaud

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Label Tooth & Nail RecordsDecapolis2001

garage rock pop punk punk

This is the Huntingtons' 6th studio album, their 4th on Tooth and Nail records. Songs in the Key of You was primarily written by Mikey Huntington while the Huntingtons were on tour during the year 2000, without him (yeah sort of like a Brian Wilson (Beach Boys) type deal...but not really).

Time certainly does bring change, especially after listening to the new Huntingtons album, "Songs in the Key of You." Expecting to hear more songs blatantly influenced by the Ramones, I was surprised to hear something that was slightly different, yet the same. It seems like the guys are slowly moving away from their Ramones days, and are trying to create a sound somewhat to their own. You can definitely still hear the Ramones influence in their music, but it's hidden under the surface and brushed up with their own pop melodies rushing to the surface.

That is the best thing about this album, their smart pop sensibilities and hooks throughout every song. Sure they may only have three chords and relatively simple guitar leads, but that is just an aid for their two-part vocal harmonies and hooks that jump out at you.

The greatest thing about this album is the inclusion of keys on many songs. I feel this just adds another great dynamic the band's sound. It was definitely not something I expected to hear, and I didn't think it would work as well as it did. The music is so tight and solid that I could really care less about what they sing about. Staying true to what they know best, they fill this album with songs about girls, love and relationships in general. These are age-old topics that have been beaten to the ground time and time again, but these guys seriously write and compose the lyrics in a way that is humorous and identifiable.

Highlights on this album include "Welcome Back", "The Last Time That You Left", and "If You Only Knew". If you are a Huntingtons fan you will be quite content with their best effort to date so far, and if you never were a fan, take the time to listen to this album you may change your mind!

B+