The Glad Machine – All the Pretty Things

The Glad Machine’s second album, Hey!, was our #2 album of the year in 2022. Coming up with a worthy follow up was a tall order. But with 2025’s All The Pretty Things, Brad Thayer and Co. answer the bell admirably.

For those who have not heard either of their previous efforts, The Glad Machine specialize in big guitars, hooky choruses, and memorable harmonies. You’ll hear hints of Cheap Trick, the Sweet and Superdrag in what they do. All Those Pretty Things is in that same vein with its upbeat energy and sugar coated melodies.

The Trifecta: Power Pop, Girls and Summer

With this new LP, you might say they hit the trifecta. Nine power pop tunes about girls, summer and more, nearly every track sticks in the recesses of one’s mind after just a few listens. The feedback laced “Collide” starts the album off on the rockier side until “Back To You” bursts forward in all its power pop glory. The muscular “Gravity Sunshine” has a psychedelic vibe. I bet this one’s great live as its anthemic chorus makes for a great shout along moment.

“So High” has the kind of melody that you’ll swear you’ve heard before. It’s got a great summer and surf vibe to it. In that same summertime vein, the rock ballad “Can We Still Fall In Love This Summer” caught my attention for its killer guitar licks. I’m a sucker for tunes about girls, so I figured “Caroline” would be a keeper. It’s so much more. It’s a start to finish hook and very possibly by favorite song of 2025. I find myself unconsciously humming it at stop lights.

Where to Find All The Pretty Things

I like to have a physical disc with artwork. If that’s your preference, then head on over to Kool Kat Musik for your copy of Glad Machine’s All the Pretty Things. You can get the mp3s at Apple Music. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.