Plasticsoul – We Can Hear You, Clem Fandango

Nine years after Therapy (Big Stir’s inaugural release), California’s Plasticsoul return with a title that references Steven Toast’s catchphrase from Toast of London. The joke fits: this is a band that has always mixed sharp hooks and wit with serious rock chops. With We can Hear You, Clem Fandango, they lean hard into gritty glam-rock swagger while keeping the psychedelic textures and jangly pop we’re accustomed to.

Frontman Steven Wilson is backed by the same core lineup of Marc Bernal (bass), Steven Markowitz (drums) and Daniel Conrad (guitar). This latest effort delivers big guitars and rich harmonies. Lead single “J’adore” sets the tone with a sticky “woo-woo” hook. Paired with the irresistible “(She’s Got) The Move”, it’s makes for a stomping one-two punch. “Little Jewel” jangles with a psych-tinged Revolver era feel. “Virulent Rich Boys” is a punchy track with a sly social bite. Kinda reminds me of The Kinks or The Romantics.

Bottom line:  We Can Hear You, Clem Fandango is fun, melodic power pop. After the long wait, it’s everything we could have hoped for. Turn it up. Get your copy at the Big Stir Records Bandcamp page. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED