United States of America
The Presidents of the
United States of America
Year: 1995
Format: Compact disc
Grade: B-
Upon reflection, irony feels considerably more fashionable now than it ever did in the '90s, leaving that decade feeling optimistic and earnest.
That's a feeling that's still present in the self-titled debut from The Presidents of the United States of America. Instantly, when people describe the '90s as droll and humorless, I'm pointing to The Presidents, Weezer and reruns of "The Simpsons" as reminders that we weren't taking ourselves that seriously.
It's hard to believe that too many members of '90s youth escaped the decade without hearing this record's "Lump" and "Peaches," neither of which is remembered for its sardonic outlook on life. This is a record that starts with an song about petting a kitty.
There isn't a dollop of insincerity when Chris Ballew sings, "You seem cool for a naked chick in a booth. Let's be pals some day" in "Stranger."
I'm sure if I'd come to this album in 1995, I'd have fond memories, but picking it up in 2012 is a window back into the era.
Tomorrow's entry: Grimes, Visions
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