The Bynars‘ latest self-titled release is really weird. However, if you are familiar with Matt Jatkola’s previous musical endeavours this is, perhaps, the norm. An infectious and fun blur of bright guitars, multi layered vocal harmonies, and synthesizers, it sounds like The Apples In Stereo listened to french electro pop for a year straight and made a record. Depending on your viewpoint, the album art is an excellent pastiche or homage to the modernist movement of the 60’s, either way, it is an enjoyable visual compliment.
While certainly suitable for any party setting (except for perhaps the slow song in the middle, Every Little Thing You Love), the most fun tracks to cut a rug to would be Asking Your Mom for Money (which you can download for free from their BandCamp page), Angeline, and Love Me. Oh, and if you have a thing for Gary Numan (don’t pretend you don’t remember him) be sure you check out track 8, This Is Our Song.
The Bynars is out April 26, check out the band’s website for a list of upcoming shows. They’re playing throughout New England leading up to the May 4th CD Release at Great Scott in Allston.
–Charles Murphy