Polyvinyl have struck gold in the new Mates of States album, Team Boo. It is some of the most imaginative, innovative, bouncy rock and roll I've heard in years. Yes, it's a little lo-fi (though the engineering is sound and fits the songs exceptionally well), and yes at times it's a little childish, but that's a good amount of its charm; this record could win over any cynical elitist snob.

Trumpet and quaint instrumentation litter this album, which is mostly drum and organ driven. The songs are built on pop sensibilities, but it is not remotely derivitive or repetitive, as it is led competently by the shared vocals of married couple Kori Gardner and Jason Hammel. It even has a bit of a lullaby feel to it, like indie kids trying to create rock ballads for kids. It is easily the most accessible quality album I have heard all year, and deserves to be heard.

As Rhianna said to me recently, "It's a married couple yelling at each other in a good way. What more could you ask for?" I am inclined to agree; this is an endearing record that you just can't help but like.

-Todd Berry