This cd brings two things to my mind. They aren't exciting, really. But if someone described the cd as this I would understand perfectly what the person was talking about. Most people, however, will not get it as they have not the knowledge or experiences needed.

First of all, there is a Danielson Famile feel to the group of people who make up The Polyphonic Spree. Not nessisarily in sound, perhaps (though there is perhaps a spark in that direction), but in image. The Polyphonic Spree utilizes the same concept of dressing alike. They wear flowing, white robes and hold a far-off gaze to something in the distance. Subsitute white robes for a white nurses outfit and you have The Danielson Famile (albiet on a much smaller scale).

Secondly, I used to sing in a choir back in the glorious days before my voice changed. It was the Pennsylvania Acadamy of Music children's choir. Not the best choir in the world, but we held our own. Our director kept us mainly to two parts, with the occational 3rd part thrown in for good measure. It was fun singing in a choir. Allowing your voice to blend with others to create a ringing sound.

For that is what The Polyphonic Spree is. A choir. Granted, they are much different from most choirs, but, at it's core, that is what they are. According to the photo in the cd insert there are 27 people representing TPS. Most of them sing, several of them play an instrument (usually while singing), and a couple only tackle instruments.

The music it's self has a choral base with a definate pop edge. There seems to be a main singer who leads the songs and his voice ties each track together, so they don't fall apart or become too redundant. The back up singers sing their heart out, creating a rich, textured wall of noise. They can be loud and in your face and they can be soft and subtle.

For me, this cd takes me back to a time when life was carefree and I could just sing. Memories and feelings that other groups cannot bring. TPS puts a spring in my step. Or more likely, a lighter grip to my steering wheel.

This will probably be a hit or miss affair for most people. They'll either love it to death, or they just won't understand it. However, if you like the layered pop sound, or enjoy quirky choir music, give it a try.

peace.