“People will come to adore the technologies that undo their capacities to think”
This quote comes from Neil Postman’s book Amusing Ourselves To Death. The book was released in 1985, but its analysis of how society is seduced into complacency by an overwhelming flood of trivial entertainment and pleasure is more relevant than ever. So kudos to Dayton’s six-piece, The Paint Splats, for naming their latest album after this highly recommended book. It’s not the only reason I’m sympathetic towards the band—the record is a charming collection of head-boppers and foot-tappers.
If I owned a record store, I’d definitely put Amusing Ourselves To Death in the power pop section, just to spark the occasional customer debate. And I’d probably give that customer some points. The Paint Splats’ brand of guitar pop has an elusive quality, with forays into everything from meat-‘n’-potatoes rock-‘n’-roll to more cerebral geek rock. But then I’d make the case that, to my ears, most of the songs follow a classic power pop blueprint, with The Paint Splats putting their unique spin on it. I’m getting strong Dom Mariani vibes (The Stems, DM3, Someloves), and a song like What We Leave would fit well on anything by Friends Of Cesar Romero and The Reflectors. Any song that feels like a departure from power pop is followed by an absolute banger.
Admittedly, I wasn’t blown away by this record at first; a superficial listen does that sometimes, especially with this kind of music. But it quickly grew on me, revealing new layers to enjoy with each successive spin. Imagine having written a killer track like Toynbee Tiles* and having the patience to save it as the closer of your record. This band has guts and talent!
CD and tape available at Magnaphone Records.
* A reader pointed out that four Paint Splats members recorded the song previously under the Tennis Dads moniker in the aftermath of the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol – listen here. Which version do you prefer?
Add to wantlist: Bandcamp