What the crap? This is by far the weirdest record that's crossed my desk in a while; I can't bear to call it bubble gum, because it is far too good to be considered bubble gum, yet it would appeal to the bubble gum crowds as easily as it would the more pretentious indie rock kids. The album bends and sways its way through pop melodies, toned down early 90's punk rhythms, and fun, soft, soothing vocals. This seems like one of those great late night party records; people can dance to it, but it fits the background just as well.

In sixteen tracks, I find it hard to pick out a favorite, but also to find one I don't like on some level. It's a marriage of synth/keyboards with mellow rock guitars and fun, bouncy beats. At points it reaches for that Shins-esque 70's retro sound (like in track 8, "New Brad"), with bouncy surf-style guitar rock rhythms, and which I feel is its biggest weakness; the band is far more successful with their more rock/keyboard tracks and should, in my humble opinion, stay away from what is popular and make good music, which they do on most every track on the record.

Overall, Volcano, I'm Still Excited! ends up being a fun, keyboard driven pop record with a lot to offer the casual listener. Stupid band name, but a pretty good record.

-Dave Mandell