Los Angeles – Local synth-pop aficionados, Smallpools, are enthusiastically prepared to show the world their highly anticipated debut LP, LOVETAP!  In the summer of 2013, the band released their first self-titled EP on RCA Records. It was an incredible feat considering the band had only been together a few months up until that point. They played their first live show just days before the release of the EP.  Last November, Best New Bands covered their headlining show at the Henry Fonda Theater where the band introduced a few songs that made it to this new album.

Now, Sean Scanlon (vocals), Mike Kamerman (guitar), Joe Intile (bass), and Beau Kuther (drums) are laying it all out on the table with their debut full-length, prepared to conquer 2015 in a huge way. All four songs off their EP are present, as is their 2014 single, “Killer Whales,” on this 14-track collection. Fortunately, the brand new tracks are as sprightly as anything the band has ever presented. Smallpools have a knack for splashy, lavishly constructed songs. Their robust material is absolutely electrifying to the listener’s ear. LOVETAP! brings a heavy stream of garish synths, fearless bass lines, thrashing drums, and penetrating vocals. In the vein of Passion Pit and Foster The People, Smallpools have crafted a shimmering resonance that lets you imagine summer is all year long.

“American Love” launches with an uncontested, explosive sound. It’s doused with crisp vocals, searing guitar work, and dynamic drumming. “Karaoke,” the latest single, has a 80s synth beat to start things off. Scanlon throws his high-pitched vocals into the arena accompanied by lively guitars, pounding drums, and catchy melodies. The refined sound is much different than what they delivered on their EP. “Karaoke” offers much momentum within the three and a half minute running time. “Street Fight” is gleefully enjoyable. The lyrics “Caught in a street fight, you need a lifeline, go ahead and use me, I’ll be your Bruce Lee,” begin the song before Smallpools head into the soundscape they’re now ever so accustomed to. The track is pure, guilty-pleasure fun. Those first lyrics are actually said quite often throughout the song, which makes it difficult not to sing along to this simply effective tune. “Street Fight” is the clear-cut winner for “most likely to dance to” track off LOVETAP!

The title track heads down what seems like a slightly different path. The melody is reminiscent of Walk The Moon and Scanlon’s voice sounds a bit altered, in a good way. It’s a solid, 80s themed endeavor that shows their depth. LOVETAP! is proving Smallpools aren’t resting on their laurels by attempting to duplicate the success of their hit song, “Dreaming.”

“Dyin’ To Live” will undoubtedly pump up the listener. Scanlon once again showcases his shrill tone backed by engaging vibes supplied by the rest of the guys.

Smallpools have a number of songs here that will simply get you out of your seat and have you dancing in no time. The infectious “Admission” feels like something that could have been off their first EP. It’s reminiscent of “Over and Over” and “No Story Time.” However, it still stands on its own. Smallpools aren’t trying to be deep; if you’re here for something profound, you need to turn back around and trek elsewhere. “9 to 5” has an eerily similar tone to something off a Vampire Weekend record. In the end, Smallpools throws us a curve ball with the beautiful, slowed down, M83-esque momentum building track, “Submarine.” It’s predominantly instrumental, but serves an apt closer to a vigorous and rapidly paced compilation.

The four songs from the EP are still a joy to listen to, but I’m thrilled LOVETAP! has much more to offer than just a retread of those nearly two-year-old songs. Containing bright vocals, upbeat melodies, and an overwhelming freshness associated with it, LOVETAP! is nearly non-stop fun from beginning to end. Smallpools’ debut attempt operates as both your opening party sound as well as a fitting conclusion. If you want to start summer early, this isn’t a bad place to begin.

Check out Smallpools Facebook page for information about their upcoming tour. LOVETAP! is out on March 23 via RCA Records. 

Photo of Smallpools by Anna Lee

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Sean Kayden

His father has always been an avid fan of 70s and 80s artists. He introduced Sean at an early age to the likes of many rock groups of that era. In the late 90s, Sean acquired a fondness for the likes of such alternative bands as Smashing Pumpkins, Goo Goo Dolls, and Red Hot Chili Peppers. In high school, he gravitated towards artists like Brand New, Saves The Day, and Fall Out Boy. As Sean entered California State University Fullerton, where he earned his BA in Radio/TV/Film, his music taste expanded to the realm of Broken Social Scene, The National, and Death Cab For Cutie. For as long as Sean can remember, he has always had the desire of launching his own stories that would someday be presented through television, film, and print. This form of expression continuously uplifts his spirit. Sean is a certified TRX fitness trainer and teaches group classes as well.

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