Bishop Allen

Grrr”¦ (Dead Oceans)

The title of the third album from Bishop Allen might get you thinking the members of the quirky Brooklyn indie-pop outfit are angry about something. But proving you can’t judge an album by its name, there’s not even a hint of irritation on the happy-go-lucky Grrr”¦.

Featuring songs named after big-five animals, the album is packed with gentle indie-nation melodies and cheesy-yet-catchy lyrics that will play over and over in your mind. From lines like “Olly olly oxen free” to “Smile a little while”, core band members Justin Rice and Christian Rudder (who use a rotating cast of musical collaborators) seem pretty satisfied with life. “The Lion & the Teacup” features a prominent xylophone melody, and gentle ukulele sways in “Dimmer”. Such little touches make Grrr”¦ a great easy-listening album for a relaxing Sunday, a sun-drenched day at the beach, or simply a diversion from everyday life.

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