From KCRW DJ Eric J Lawrence:
Anyone who knows me knows I’ve got a vicious sweet tooth. I keep an annual ranking of my favorite candy bars (the Milky Way Strictly Caramel held 2011’s #1 spot), and I consider myself somewhat of an expert in all things gummy. But my appreciation for sugary confections applies to music as well. I’m a sucker for a good bubblegum pop tune, whether from The Archies or La Roux.
The latest tune to hit my sweet spot is “Heart Attack,” a new track from Danish pop sensations the Asteroids Galaxy Tour. You may remember them from their 2009 debut album, “Fruit”, which spawned the singles, “The Sun Ain’t Shining No More,” “Around the Bend” and “The Golden Age”, all of which were used extensively in films, TV shows and commercials, including a memorable Heineken spot. AND were performed live in an excellent session on KCRW.
Their mix of retro touches (60’s organs, handclaps, a general go-go dancing vibe) with 21st century beats and other production tricks (not to mention an insanely catchy hook) lend a timeless feel to their good-time jams, reminding me a bit of late-80s indie-pop favorites the Primitives, with a little more focus on the dance floor.
For those more prone to dental cavities, it is possible that “Heart Attack” may be TOO sweet for your own good, leading to an audio coronary. It is often the case that the kinds of songs that catch me right off the bat will wear out their welcome very quickly. But so far this new Asteroids Galaxy Tour track has withstood well over a dozen listens, leaving me only looking for more sugary goodness.
Can YOU stand the sweetness???
ERIC J. LAWRENCE