reviews

There’s been a pretty steady release of new Bubblegum Lemonade pop ditties this year, and I’m pretty embarrassed to say I haven’t given Laz and company enough proper love. And look, the title track of the French Letters in the Sand EP is pretty special, offering a really catchy bit of indiepop, as prescribed by your doctor. But, the second tune on here, “The Hottest Day of the Year” is an absolute gem, and might be one of my favorite tunes that the band has penned. After opening with a fiery riff, it settles into a snappy bounce, swinging your hips from side to side with the melody. There’s a warmth that perhaps comes with the title, but the mid tune diversion of “where does she go” cemented the ditty in my brain! If you love good pop, stop what you’re doing and slide into these tunes, courtesy of Matinée Recordings. —Austin Town Hall

Armed with his trusty Rickenbacker guitar, Lawrence "Laz" McCluskey has been recording terrific pop ditties under the name Bubblegum Lemonade for nearly two decades. Earlier this year was a singles comp. and a previous EP a few months ago, and now this very fine EP (leading up to their new album, To Surf With Love, out at the end of this month). All three of these cuts are winners, from the opening title track (with the alluring woman speaking in French at the beginning), the song jumps right into a sweet rollercoaster of melody (and tambourine!). "The Hottest Day of the Year" is another ace cut with some cool background woo-woos. Finally, there's a radio session version of "Maybe Someday," and if you close your eyes, you'd think it might be an outtake from Sonic Flower Groove or something. To me, anyway. Dive into the world of Laz and Bubblegum Lemonade and do it now. —Dagger