Review: Lannie Flowers “Circles”

Powerpop
The 2010 sophomore release from powerpop artist Lannie Flowers is called “Circles”, featuring a hefty 15 new tracks. The record follows 2008’s "Same Old Story," which was the Album of the Year according to Power Pop Station. Lannie Flowers is from Texas and his first band, The Pengwins, covered songs by T. Rex, David Bowie, and Mott the Hoople. This 70s rock influence still resonates in his material today.

Lannie Flowers wastes no time getting to the title track, stacking it right up front. “Circles” swirls effortlessly down the ear canal, reminding me of the early classics by the Posies. Many of us can relate to the spinning-my-wheels theme of “Circles”, which crops up quite often throughout the record. “Turn Up Your Radio” is another tasty nugget of ear candy, mixing the pop riffs of Cheap Trick with the taste of 70s bubblegum harmonies. “Around The World” is a glistening pop tune that boasts Beatlesque melodies with bright piano accents. “Not In Love”, complete with hand claps, is an irresistible sing-a-long and excellent choice for a single. Once again, the lyrics touch on a topic we can all relate to – rushing into a relationship but regretting it before long. His 70s idols show their face on several other cuts: “C’mon Over” is bursting with Raspberries goodness, and I’ll bet you’ll be able to your ‘finger’ on the band that likely inspired “Where Does Love Go”. Two strong cuts end the album memorably, the crunchy “Lookin’ For You” and the sweet acoustic ditty, “Rusty Circles”, which brings the themes of the record full circle.

“Circles” is a HUGE winner of an album. Sunny tunes, universal lyrics, George Harrison styled solos, and more hooks than a Bait n’ Tackle shop - Lannie Flowers is a new leader in modern powerpop.

“Circles” is available now, and you can download the first single, “Not In Love” for FREE at the web site. Check out Lannie Flowers if you like the Posies, Cheap Trick, The Raspberries, or Wanderlust.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 11, 14, 15

Lannie Flowers on MySpace. Official site.

Listen to “Circles”