The Amplifier Heads – Music for Abandoned Amusement Parks

While Loudah was a lot of fun, Music for Abandoned Amusement Parks by The Amplifier Heads succeeds on two levels. With this latest effort from Sal Baglio and co., we get both an interesting concept album and a bunch of memorable pop singles. It’s a win-win if ever there was one.

There are 16 tracks in all, a little less than half of them acting as instrumental mood setters between songs. While I’m not a big fan of instrumentals, in this case they work very effectively to create a visceral experience – a necessity for a good concept album.

Classic Power Pop from Amplifier Heads

The festivities begin with the slow refrain “Arise, arise. Today’s the day the carnival arrives.” launching us into the albums first single, “Funhouse Mirrors”.  The youthful innocence of “Funhouse” is followed by one of the aforementioned mood setters, “The Lonesome Carousel”. We don’t need a lyric to follow the story. The narrative continues with “September Song”, the perfect tune to usher in the fall season.

One can’t help but sing along to “Candy Apple Girl”. “Ghost Song” is classic power pop and “Freaks” rocks with crunchy guitars and a slightly unholy vibe.

Each piece adds to the facade, thereby creating one of the most memorable listening experiences of the year.  Get The Amplifier Heads’ Music for Abandoned Amusement Parks at their Bandcamp page. Or if you prefer physical product, get the CD at Kool Kat Musik.