Though
Stereo Skyline's debut record,
Stuck on Repeat, will be marketed to emo pop-loving teens, and though they use many of the hallmarks of emo pop 2010 like Auto-Tune, ultra-slick production, and hair so swoopy
Donald Trump would be jealous, the quartet is really nothing more than an update on the bubblegum sound of the late '60s. From the ultra-catchy singsong choruses and the simple chord progressions to the lyrics that split the difference between cute and cuddly, this is a band with no ties at all to what might be called “real” emo. Add in Kevin Baird's puppy dog-sweet vocals and you have a sound that makes
the Archies sound like
Slayer, especially on the almost too lovely and lilting ballad "Me & You." For those looking for some edge or danger in their musical choices,
Stereo Skyline will no doubt repel them like the most toxic of bug sprays. But if you’re looking for heartfelt sweetness, tuneful tunes, and an overall good-time vibe,
Stuck on Repeat is nearly perfect. The eight songs are all memorable, fun, and friendly, played with plenty of upbeat energy and a carefree zest. Listening to the record is like spending 20 minutes jumping in a Day-Glo moonbounce with all your friends, flying around semi-recklessly and generally feeling as good as possible. It’s a wonderful debut for the band, and lovers of cotton-candied pop can only hope it’s the first of many super fun records to come. ~ Tim Sendra