3 albums in 18 months, I am now convinced. Secret Powers are one of the most exciting bands to come along in power pop in that time period. Before I get to the obligatory superlatives, let me say that as truly *great* as their first albums are, each hitting Top Of The Year results for not only me, but scores of other pop pundits, "Lies And Fairy Tales" challenges this success track record and pushes forward into new territories, while holding onto everything that made "Explorers Of The Polar Eclipse" and "Secret Powers And Electric Family Choir" so inviting and immediate. It`s band having a whole lot of fun, pushing blending of Electric Light Orchestra, Jellyfish, "Pet Sounds", the most perfect take on Harry Nilsson I`ve heard in years(sample #4 below - get rocking on this bugger!) and...well, a whole parade of important, classic artists and bands. But it`s not a parade of parody or mimicking. Secret Powers does their own thing. Very well, in fact. Better than 99% of power pop bands forging, foraging and exploring the out reaches of pop form. The Partridge Family said it so well back in 1970 and the sentiment applies here: "Come On, Get Happy!". You listen to "Lies And Fairy Tales" and if your soul does not adjust upward, call the doctor and get out your funk. I used the following sentences on their first album, I must bring up again: Bouncy hooky, enchanting melodies ride proudly atop the not-so-simple arrangements, letting the pop shine clearly, without hesitation. It is just song-after-song of "Wow!" moments with huge payoff at the end of each one. A joyfest of hum-along choruses and finger-snapping verses. Ahh, sweetness. Inspiring vistas what indie power pop can do. Simple, this one is Vital. Today and it sure feels like tomorrow, this one is a "10 out 10", I can find no fault.
"Secret Powers settles easily into playlists packed with the current crop of Pet Sounds-inspired, sweet-toned indie pop bands, but its sound, anchored by Shmed Maynes` McCartney-esque keyboard, is more proudly retro than anything coming out of hipsterdom. It achieves a fine balance between the best elements of `60s and `70s pop and rock.The power of Secret Powers lies in simplicity of approach. Simple may be an odd word for a band that threads complex and heavily layered harmonies through every song, both on instruments and vocals, but the ultimate effect, like that of the great Phil Specter megaproductions, is joyous simplicity" - Missoula News.
 Song #1 - mp3
Song #2 - mp3
Song #3 - mp3
Song #4 - mp3
Song #5 - mp3
Song #6 - mp3
Song #7 - mp3 | 
