The New York based trio, The Happy Problem, perpetuates the intensity and drive of punk, adding their own gritty and graceful elements on their full-length record, “Head Case.” Aptly depicted by loony clown cover art, the album features a tinge of circus kookiness combined with Sam Shaber’s compelling, heartfelt-meet-heated vocals, slamming drums, and gripping guitars. Not a stereotypical punk album, The Happy Problem place greater emphasis on melody over momentum. Highlight tracks, opener, “Curvature,” frantic “Matador,” softer- edged “The Prettiest Girl,” straight ahead rock title tune, “Head Case,” flowing “Seaweed,” metal-inspired “Wizard,” and heavier rendition of Petula Clark’s “Downtown,” demonstrate that THP cannot be confined to one type of rock. On Thursday, November 3, The Happy Problem will take on IndiePunk Night at the Delancey at 9pm. – Meijin Bruttomesso
