The Paperbacks are Canadian, but don’t hold that against them. The fivesome have recently recorded this cd, the strangely named ‘An Episode Of Sparrows’ on Newest Industry Records and follow on the back of this folk-punk explosion that seems to be set to grip the world. I’m not saying The Paperbacks have cashed in on any trend because this album should be at the forefront of any surge because it’s beautifully written.
Frontman Doug McLean, who has also been part of bands such as The Bonaduces and Painted Thin, clearly has an ear for something sweet and nice. It’s such a sickly thing to say I know, but McLean has a massive talent for writing a hook without turning the volume up. This record would certainly appeal to fans of the early Get Up Kids. They’re also touring the US with The Weakerthans if you needed another comparison.
‘Suffer This Like A Dream’ is a slow start to the record, but melodic nonetheless. The fantastically named ‘Who will run the starfish hospital?’ follows up, before the classy ‘If I Make It Through This Winter’. The vocals on the latter certainly have elements of TGUK about them, the xylophone is a lovely touch and the song itself is a great power-pop song. The unique lyrical style is also notable, with Mclean extremely detailed in his descriptions.
I listened to this record almost non-stop on a 5-hr train journey to Bristol recently, such is the irresistable charm the record holds. You can put it on, gaze out of the window and drift off to a better place. When McLean is on top form, as he is on ‘Local Celebrities’, you just cannot help but fall in love with this band. Cute is a trite word, but there aren’t many better descriptions of some of these songs. ‘Bridge’ again relies on the vocal melodies more than anything else, and of course they’re epic. A favourite of mine, among many great songs, is ‘My Landscape Is Not Land’, a song which is, well, just great – a bit like this album really.
The Paperbacks will appeal to anyone who enjoys hook-filled power-pop, has an ear for a melody or who adores the ‘Four Minute Mile’-era Get Up Kids work. Ordering direct from Newest Industry will cost you just £7.50 and that really is a bargain.
www.thepaperbacks.com
paul