On A Clear Day I Can Read Your Mind

Rilo Kiley “Give A Little Love” – The most appealing thing about Rilo Kiley’s new album is that they’ve totally surrendered to their least cool influences in a way that seems totally natural and sincere, and not even a little bit glib or ironic. The production is immaculate, and every track, whether it’s a nod to Linda Ronstadt-esque country pop, gooey teen drama balladry, cheesy riff rock, or the whole late 70s coke-fueled “California” aesthetic sounds silky, smooth, and set to impress the sort of people indie rock types usually loathe the most — you know, like “tampon rock” fans and moms. Though some of the numbers hew closer to the (actually quite square) sound of their previous record, the best cuts dive into the deep end and come out stronger because it’s just so clear that the group is either living out some sort of fantasy, or simply being themselves. “Give A Little Love” sounds like a sparkly synth ballad from a late 80s teen pop record that’s been given a slight make-over by Jenny Lewis. The song can’t help but feel a bit dorky, but she plays it very straight, and fully embraces the direct, unguarded sentimentality of the style to great effect, while also drawing on the warm, soupy quasi-R&B backing vocals that complemented her well on her solo album. (Click here to buy it from Amazon.)

Elsewhere: My new Hit Refresh column is up on the ASAP site with mp3s from the Thai Pop Spectacular, Who Needs Tomorrow, and Joe Meek Freakbeat compilations.