Possibly one of the most appropriately named debut albums in the power pop world,
Starbelly's
Lemon Fresh is an excellently sweet-and-sour confection of Big Star-influenced guitar pop. Led by guitarist/vocalist
Cliff Hillis (also of John Faye Power Trip fame) and bassist/vocalist Dennis Schocket, this collection of 11 tracks written by three songwriters sounds not entirely unlike the legendary Grays release Ro Sham Bo. It's packed with memorable hooks, melodies, and melt-away background vocals. Nearly impeccable production (courtesy of
Myracle Brah's
Andy Bopp) and a flawless set of songs help make this set truly stand out from other power pop releases, and it is another high-water mark for NotLame. Highlights include the smooth pop of the opening "This Time," the summer single "She's So Real" (a song that should only be listened to on sunny 90 degree days), and the up-tempo, start-stop "When Will You See."