How Sweet It Is

I usually follow rule of thumb of never judging a book (or record, for that matter) by its cover. However, after taking a quick glance the album artwork of Matthew Sweet's tenth studio album (and first original material in four years), and perusing some of the track names ("Let's Love," Daisychain," "Pleasure Is Mine," etc.), I beg to differ. After giving the singer/songwriter's new record a few spins, it becomes evident that Sweet has found his inner chi. And not shockingly, the vibe of his new album, Sunshine Lies, is nothing but, well, sunshine and daisies (literally...). But who says there's anything wrong with churning out some great, uplifting powerpop every so often? Hell, it's been working pretty damn well for Nada Surf and Fountains of Wayne -- two bands who have boasted some pretty reputable careers out of this tried and true three-and-a-half minute musical formula. And although Sweet has been a little bit of a recluse the past few years, the time off seems to have steadied the ship for the singer, as Lies marks a return to form. We haven't heard Sweet soar like this since his mid-90's 100% Fun days. The opening distortion of first track, "Time Machine," appropriately contains a doorbell sound affect -- a literal hint that he's back home on this record where he belongs. When talking about his new found inspiration, Sweet himself admits, “Now, I feel really free when I work. It’s easy and I have a good time. This record has come together in a way that it feels like this special little trip with some magic in it—moments where, to me, it gets crazy-great.” And he's not just tooting his own horn here; this album is jampacked with some of the best songs of his career. The crunchy "Room To Rock," reminds us that Sweet still remembers how to wail on his Strat like his Girlfriend days. But this is just the beginning -- "Flying" is a face-melter in every sense of the word. Just because Sweet has aged, doesn't mean he's gone completely soft on us. Although admittedly, this one does have its share of signature ballads (see "Pleasure Is Mine", "Back of My Mind"). But if you can pen a gushy tune as well as this guy, you'd also be given carte blanche to do as you please. When it's all said and done, this album perfectly balances out the rocker and the balladeer in Sweet, and is yet another one of 2008's unexpected surprises.

My Rating: 7.8/10