Excellent services

The Pacific Northwest has been a hotbed of musical activity over the previous decades. One of the latest bands from the area to generate some attention is Seattle's own Central Services. Typically, it's best to remain skeptical of the buzz buildup around a band, but Central Services is actually deserving of the hype.\nThe band is composed of two friends and Connecticut natives who moved to Seattle and three additional musicians from the area. Four of the five members of the group are also in another band called Math and Physics Club. Though their time has been divided between various projects, Central Services released their We're All Smarter Now EP in 2005 and their debut record in 2006.\nThough the band put out their self-titled debut in September 2006, it is just beginning to find its way around the rest of America. Following in the path of other notable indie-rock do-it-yourselfers, Central Services have managed to expand their audience without actually being affiliated with a record label. The band's steady introduction into the musical diet of hipsters hungry for smooth indie-pop goodness has been aided by the usual suspects at NPR, KEXP and the increasingly ubiquitous "blogosphere". \nAfter taking a moment to step back from the notable plugs, the album still manages to shine as a simplistic pop patchwork that refrains from being overindulgent. Utilizing peppy melodies and songwriting skills that mirror that of '70s era feel-good pop, Central Services have meticulously constructed an album that is by no means short on hooks or playful ambiance.\nThe album begins with the energetic "Get to You" and strolls through nine more satisfying tracks. Focus throughout the album alternates between tranquil acoustic pieces and songs that utilize the same basic, yet compelling, style of the album's opening. As is the case with similar works, some will undoubtedly attempt to define the songs as Sunday morning soundtrack material, but this doesn't do the songs justice as it qualifies them as nothing more than filler. The album is certainly simplistic and relaxing, but it is also an absorbing work that reflects innocence and youth.\nWhile the title of "next big thing" has been tossed around when discussing this band, the album probably will not have the clout to make the band a household name. However, Central Services have made a record that will calmly find its way into the hearts and minds of many listeners who are aching for the sharpness and sensibilities of pop music from days gone by. This album is well worth a listen, whether it's on a Sunday morning or not.