Skypark

Item: Overbluecity
Author: Sucré Musique

Overbluecity

(2000)

Reviewed by Sucré Musique

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Label Word RecordsBandoppler2000

alternative rock funk rock modern rock pop rock

With albums like "One More Night With the Frogs" and "Am I Pretty," Skypark has had five years to carve out a name for themselves, and a sound that is not punk, not ska, not mod, and not really anything particularly bandwagon-y. (Refreshing, isn't it?) This time around, Ed Stasium produced the album, with an impressive roster of previous projects, like The Ramones, The Smithereens, and Living Colour, as well as engineering and/or mixing such a wide variety of projects, from The Talking Heads to Gladys Knight and the Pips. The production is excellent, and compliments the variety of songs that ended up on the disc.

Opening up with the blistering guitars of Viva Satellite, the album kicks things off in full force. The funky bass lines and guitars on Breathe almost have a RHCP quality, with a definite nod to the 1970s. Throughout the album there are subtle hints of The Beatles, Lenny Kravitz, Living Colour, even the Black Crowes, that flitter by, but not long enough to sound derivative. The Sing-along Chorus Award goes to What God Does, and The Girl In Your Picture. (Both also get points for lovable Weezerness.)

Melodic and emotional cuts make a few appearances among the rock gems, among them Wait For Me, and That's What You Say. The title-track, Over Blue City, featuring vocals by Maire Brennan, alternates between delicate, simplistic instrumented verses, and edgy choruses. Under Your Mercy has more of an arena rock feel, but it is played really well, so it's all good. (Besides, the lyrics are just beautiful.)

After a Dove Award nomination, it should be noted that they have grabbed the attention of a lot of music industry types. And, for good reason: Skypark write good songs, imbued with funk, rock, and bluesy stylistic influences. Add to that some all around strong musicianship, and the soulful vocals of Tyrone Wells, and you've got a really memorable album.