Rating:  -
Yeah, that's like saying what's the best Beatles album? This release is a top notch group effort. This slab was produced by Tom Rothrock and he did a masterful job. Since all 4 members of Sloan write songs, putting a release together previously would include a democratic process in song selection. This time however, Rothrock had the band work as a team, and now there's a consistency that had clearly been missing. And yet, it certainly doesn't feel 'overproduced,' just focused. The Canucks' last release was a bit of a downer, but this one makes up for it in a big way. Of the group's 7 studio albums, this ranks very highly with me. I find it has an amazing repeat listenability factor. If someone asked me to recommend a Sloan disc as an introduction to the band, it would be a toss-up between AP and OCTA. Both are masterpieces. OCTA is more rockin', but AP rocks too and its maturity is refreshing. It's hard for a band to grow musically and still appeal to their core fans. I think this band does it gracefully. And like every Sloan release, it contains Hooks A Plenty!
Rating: -
I lean towards the British bands such as the Verve, Coldplay, Embrace, the bluetones, Dodgy (look into them if you haven't), the stills, Keane, the Delays (another to check out), HOWEVER, these boys from Canada rival the best of the best. Pick your time, your era, your style, Sloans latest is at the top.
14 tracks, and not one should have been left out. The only downside is that it all closes out at just under 45 mins. (including the bonus track).
I hate comparisons and analogies, but if I must compare (in order to help the feeble minded), then try to imagine Cheap Trick, crossed with classic Kiss and Styx. Now, add to the blender the Beach boys, and the Cosmic Rough Riders. Pour that back into the shaker but add a splash of the Waxwings and dash of Nada Surf (by the way, all of the above mentioned bands are worthy of a good listen, especially Cosmic rough Riders (out of Scotland), the Waxwings, and nadasurf!.
Bottom line, the hooks are epic, the tunes are classic, and the voices and harmonies are top notch. The song-writing and musicianship are bangin'. Do yourself a favor, Trust STEVE and Buy this record.
As for the stand out tracks, NOPE, see for yourself that they all deserve the hype that many rock mags are giving them.
Enjoy! Steve
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