Review: Rooney "Calling the World"

I've been waiting impatiently for a new "official" release from Rooney (web site) since their impressive debut CD came out in Spring 2003 (self-titled). "Calling the World" is more of the same that made the debut so infectious, and in my book that is a good thing. Their signature hooks and harmonies abound on this one, and their experimention with unique sounds and instrument effects continues with great results. I can easily hear nods to a lot of classic 80s stuff in here, from the Hall & Oates-like "Are You Afraid?" to the Prince & the Revolution-like drums on "All in Your Head". Rooney shines on the more upbeat and bouncy numbers compared to the rare moments when they slow things down. A remarkable band that has skillfully taken dated 80s sounds and made them suitable for listening again. We should expect no less since they take their band name from Ed Rooney, the high school principal from the 80s film Ferris Bueller's Day Off.

Check out the video for the first single, "When Did Your Heart Go Missing."



iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11

Rooney on myspace.