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The Pains of Being Pure at Heart

by Neph Basedow – March 5, 2009

New York band, The Pains of Being Pure at Heart, released its self-titled debut album earlier this month on Slumberland Records. For anyone in dire need of a worthy rock record, it has finally arrived.

The band has borrowed inspiration from its new wave predecessors, but they’ve utilized it in an impressively novel way. “Stay Alive”, a standout from the record, nostalgically sounds like Lush meets the Sundays, while “Everything With You”, another highlight, could find itself on any Smiths or Jesus and Mary Chain album. “Come Saturday” fuses noise-drenched, distorted guitar fuzz, a la My Bloody Valentine, with a pop beat and winsome chorus, featuring playful boy/girl vocal interplay. Singer/keyboardist, Penny Wang, contributes airy vocals in playful harmonies, adding a charming layer to Pure at Heart’s sound. They may make clear nods to their 1980’s-era influences, but The Pains of Being Pure at Heart are resurrecting such sound in an innovative way, achieving the ideal median of a knack for crafting sunny pop tunes as well as a matched talent for a darker side of dreamy, melancholic songs.

The Pains of Being Pure at Heart is a wistful nod to the new wave prototype, but it successfully maintains the innocent charm and infectious melody of pure pop songs.

Visit them on MySpace.

About the Author: Neph Basedow

Neph is a New York native, Austin transplant and self-admitted music fanatic. After obtaining her degree in government and music at the University of Texas at Austin, Neph relocated to Chicago and is now embracing the 'flair' of the Midwest and the magic of its local music scene. A musician since age 10 and an avid show-goer, she is passionate about all things music. She loves discovering and supporting local artists and enjoys frequenting the city's independent music venues. Think your music sounds good? Let our Cheeky Soundgood decide. Contact Neph at neph@cheekychicago.com for inquiries and submissions.

Posted in Indie Gold
If I were not a physicist, I would probably be a musician. I often think in music. I live my daydreams in music. I see my life in terms of music.
— Albert Einsten
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