BANDS:

Punk & Ska
80's New Wave/
Post-Punk/
College Bands
90's & Beyond
Virginia, North
Carolina, & DC

Sparkwood: Jalopy Pop!!!
[self-released]

In a music genre that has been heavily trod for decades, Sparkwood has found their home.  The music is not a psychology lesson or a mathematical expression, but rather pop bliss in the evening on your way to the drive in.  The music is a piano and synth infused pop explosion with pitch perfect vocal harmonies and more excitement than the band next door.

Miles Away starts off with an upbeat piano-based tune, reminiscent of early Ben Folds Five,   except Ben Folds only wishes he had vocals this strong.  Clarinet is added to the electric guitar and keyboards in the toe-tapping music of D, as lead vocalist Bart Padar displays his range, wavering in and out of falsetto.

The Sparkwoodians show us their classic rock side with In Your Lovin Arms.  The electric guitars are a welcome addition to the harmonious vocals and happy tempo.  Padar again shows off his range with great finesse.  If I didnt know better, I wouldve guessed this song had been released decades earlier. 

The tempo is slowed a bit for the 60s prom-style ballad Nicholes Overture.  The piano plays a heart and soul inspired musical backdrop to the electric guitar and vocals.  This would be a perfect closing song to a dreamy high school dance to remember.

What makes this album standout is not just the musical quality, the fun little embellishments throughout or even the great vocals, but rather the fusion of the parts to create the whole.  If youre looking for barrier-breaking music, this is not for you.  But if what you seek is some quality Beatles-influenced, smile-inducing, infectious pop then youre sure to agree that Jalopy Pop!!! is the bees knees.   

This album can be purchased at the CD Baby

Sparkwood Official Website

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