CD REVIEWS
5/18/2016
Meghan Trainor
“Thank You”
Epic
Meghan Trainor wants to be seen as the modern day embodiment of Girl Power. Problem is, she does not really seem to get the concept. As an album, even though “Thank You” has a more modern feel than her debut release, it ultimately rings every bit as hollow. If you remember Trainor at all, it is most likely for last year’s ubiquitous summer hit, “All About That Bass.” On “Thank You,” eight songs attempt, in various ways, to capture the same feel as that song, which ultimately ruins the experience. When you have one song like “All About That Bass” on an album, it can feel fun and like a bit of a frivolous novelty. But when more than half the album takes the same swing, the realization sets in that she’s being completely serious, and then there is nothing left to do but roll your eyes in almost involuntary condescension. CV
Modern Baseball
“Holy Ghost”
Run For Cover
When Modern Baseball came out with its debut album, “Sports,” in 2012, the band’s component members were clearly rough around the edges but managed to hide their shortcomings as songwriters under the fuzzy veneer of lo-fi production values. Now, with “Holy Ghost,” Modern Baseball finds itself in a more confident space as songwriters, and the album feels more like a genuine effort. Where “Sports” was charming, if flawed, “Holy Ghost” has more inherent charisma and is a far more engaging effort. Songs like “Breathing in Stereo” display a band that is leaving its emo roots behind, trading up for a Killers-esque indie-pop sound that feels more mature and rounded. From a songwriting standpoint, the most fully realized track on the album is “Note to Self,” which is Jacob Ewald’s strongest writing effort to date. CV