This record is proof that the only good pop-rock (indie rock, whatever you want to call it is fine with me) does not necessarily have to be from Lawrence, Kansas. There is no way to talk about Veronica's work here without bringing up the Anniversary, just because it really reminds me of them. The keyboards are throughout (and really fill out the band's sound), it fits in that kind of genre, but honestly Veronica can stand on their own and speak for themselves. Personally, I have always found catchy pop music to be appealing. This is exactly what "Hoping For A Brighter Future" can be described as. If you are one for labels, call it pop punk, pop rock, along with elements of indie rock blended and served up happy. There is not a throwaway track on the whole record.
As far as negatives, there are times when I think the vocals could use some work. Nothing major, but there are times when they go flat and could be spiced a bit. What I find most appealing is that Veronica never goes melodramatic with this thing. There is nothing more disappointing than to listen to a band give you a record full of catchy melodies and smack in the middle (or end or wherever) is the "Hi, I am depressed" track to prove how in touch with their feelings (or in touch with what Sunny Day Real Estate is doing, you pick) they are. Even the last track, which is slow and calm still qualifies as catchy. As I have a version without track titles listed, I can say that out of the ten songs, numbers one and six stand out from the rest. Number six gets my vote for tops and features the wonderful twist of female vocals from Lois Volta (who we will hopefully be hearing more of in the future). There are some things on the album that could use some work, but overall, I am impressed. Not a perfect effort, but a solid one nonetheless. I look forward to hearing and seeing more from Veronica.
B+
Other coverage for this album
Decapolis 2001Reviewed by Tom BastianVeronica offers us a solid pop album. Nothing ground breaking here, but still enough catchy choruses and punk rock energy to keep your attention. Probably the biggest down fall with this album is that it really isn't anything new. The band takes elements of various bands that are already established in the indie rock/pop rock scenes and combines them. Probably the biggest comparisons would be…Similar sounding releases
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