Suckers [EP] (CD - 2009)

Audio Mixer: Chris Moore.

Recording information: HeadGear; Studio 57.

Out of all the Brooklyn bands drawing inspiration from Afro-pop, Suckers may be the warmest and fuzziest. Their self-titled debut EP, which was co-produced by Yeasayer's Anand Wilder, is as sunny as it is weirdly catchy, full of lilting melodies that are damaged just enough to keep them interesting, along with sing and shout-along choruses. "Beach Queen" kicks things off with a new wave homage boasting huge, cheesy synths and shiny guitars and keyboards that Hall & Oates would love. The standout is "Easy Chairs," which balances an almost ridiculously ingratiating tune with ever-so-slightly atonal guitars and pianos and also makes the most of the deadpan, David Bowie and Byrne-like wit in the band's vocals. "Afterthoughts & TV" finds the Suckers at their most deranged, with languid guitars that give way to sprightly pop, which in turn make way for rampaging brass before the song reassembles itself. "It Gets Your Body Movin'" closes Suckers on a strangely bittersweet note, but the rousing choruses mean that it will get people at the band's shows swaying back and forth, arm in arm. ~ Heather Phares minimize