Perfect for any occasion

Nothing creates more excitement for music lovers like me than a relatively new band that shows so much promise in such a short amount of time. Page France has only been in existence since 2004 and have two delightful full-length efforts under their belt. Elation swept over me when I discovered this whimsical quintet was releasing a new album, Page France and the Family Telephone. \nBefore we jump into the finer points of Page France and the Family Telephone, we should lie the sonic groundwork for the album. You'll find intermittent glockenspiel melodies, straightforward guitar work, relaxed keyboards and drums that serve as a restrained element to build on, not to work around. Let's not forget the bass, either. This instrument provides leisurely lines that wrap up songs like the bow on a birthday gift for a dear friend. Occasionally a trumpet finds its way into the mix and provides the icing on the cake.\nThough the instrumental aspects of the songs are solid and a step above the band's previous efforts, the vocals are undoubtedly my favorite part of the album. I can't help but envision vocalist Michael Nau as a kindly old man. His voice is slightly creaky, high-pitched, and the lyrics radiate a subdued wisdom and charm. Band mate Whitney McGraw also contributes backup vocals and brings the already adorable songs to the point of critical cuteness. \nIn addition to the quality of the musicians in Page France, the quality of the sound is wonderful for this effort. The production hits the sweet spot that allows the album to hover in a gray area between slick and lo-fi. It sounds almost as if it were a well-recorded live album direct from your buddy's living room as a crowd sits cross-legged on the floor around the band.\nThis album could be the soundtrack to a gentle stroll, a lazy afternoon, a trip to the zoo or a quiet night alone. Essentially, the album is anything you want it to be. It can be blissful, sullen, playful or something in between, but you'll never be able to find a lack of hope and marvel tucked gently between every lovely melody, gentle beat or quirky story that unfolds in each song. Overall, the entire effort exudes an incredible sweetness that is complemented by the feelings of wonder that are evoked while listening to this album with a careful ear and a loving heart.