While some may say that this record is a little glossy, that it’s a bit too pop, I am of the firm opinion that there is nothing wrong with a good pop record. While “Car Crash ” is a little Broadway for my taste and the closing track, “Take It Like a Man” is a strange mix of genres, overall the album gives me the warm and fuzzies. Entitled Almost Everything I Wish I’d Said The Last Time I Saw You…, the record has a major theme of love lost, and who can’t relate to that?
The opening track “Almost Everything” starts with a tinkling piano, segues into thumping bass drum with strings, and then Mike Grubb’s bright vocals shine above the beat. The lyrics mirror the upbeat tune in their optimism, with the chorus repeating “See it feels bad now, but it’s gonna get better.” The album doesn’t breathe a boring breathe before launching into another hit. “The Oh Song,” is taken over by a pulsing bass beat with a grungy melody and, as you might guess, lots of “ohs.” On the softer side, Grubbs melts your heart with “Dance So Good” singing, “Sometimes I wonder how you stay so sad when you’re so beautitul.” (On a side note, Mike Grubbs, who happens to also be an actor on The CW’s One Tree Hill performed this song on the show last week. Does that make you love him more or less? I haven’t decided for myself…)
As for the rest of the album, this is not your typical piano-driven pop record. For example, the dancey piano in “Twenty Two” is complemented by whistles and “Feral Love” sings about goin’ crazy (in bed!). Each song surprises and enchants you with Grubbs’ sweet vocals and swelling piano. I have listened to this record about 5 times through and I’m not tired of it yet!
Rating: 
(4/5)
