The Bigger Lovers are here to make you feel good about yourself.
"This Affair Never Happened... And Here Are Eleven Songs About It" is the third release in three years for the quartet, following up on the success of both 2001's "How I Learned To Stop Worrying" and 2002's "Honey In The Hive." Highlighted by the lush, the weird and the ornate, "This Affair..." is a more easily described in one word: fun.
Stemming from very visible and unabashed roots, the Bigger Lovers present flashes of the Beatles and the Beach Boys while displaying a lively, indie rock style that defies characterization, but draws some similarities along the lines of Sloan and the Stereophonics. Maybe even Black Rebel Motorcycle Club on a lethal dose of Pixy Stix.
"This Affair..." begins with the bubble gum rock and roll songs "You (You, You)" and "I Resign." "Blowtorch," one of the album's highlights, shows a side of the Bigger Lovers that can best be described as the lovechild of Tom Petty and the Gin Blossoms with Roy Orbison doing the childrearing.
Each song begins musically with a hint of an unexpected style. "Ninja Suit" is ready for a 1950's prom night and "Slice of Life" is a Jimmy Buffett tune before vocalist Bret Tobias performs his duties.
The best way to understand the Bigger Lovers is to see them live. The opportunity is upon Buffalo Friday night as Nietzsche's plays host to the Bigger Lovers. They open for the incredible Pernice Brothers, with local band Lakeside Fall opening. The show starts at 9p.m.
This comes recommended for fans of Sloan, early Wilco and Grand Champeen.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
