CD Review: Yorktown Lads – Songs About Girls and Other Disasters

I missed the new release by Yorktown Lads when it came out a few months back but, fortunately, became aware of it after reading the title on John Borack’s best of 2014 list. Had I heard it earlier, it might have made my Best Powerpop of 2104 list as well.

With its abundance of vocal harmonies and catchy choruses, its no wonder John thought so highly of it. And of course, there’s “Cool Shoes, Bro”, a lighthearted song about Simmons’ sneakers. If you’re at all familiar with Borack’s wardrobe, then you know this could have been written about him and his incredible collection of Chucks.

A three piece band from Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts, Cameron Lew, Addison Love and teacher Michael Simmons are quite obviously big fans of the early Beatles’ Merseybeat sound and share their enthusiasm for the period throughout the entirety of their debut album, Songs about Girls and Other Disasters.

Lyrically, the subject matter is exactly what you think it is. Nothing earth-shattering there. But jangly guitars, hand claps, and hooky choruses permeate throughout, bringing back the best features of that era’s music.

The opening track, “Something to Write About”, is an uptempo number that gets the disc off to a great start with it’s infectious melody and very tasteful Harrison-esque guitar solo.

Other highlights include “Around, “Sick of Me” and “When You’re Famous” who’s opening is slightly reminiscent of Tax Man (but not as overtly as The Jam’s “Start”). My favorite track however, may be “He’s Got It Down”, a song that embodies all that’s best about powerpop.