It's been four years since the first Bird Streets album. And in that time, John Brodeur has refined his sound, and, on this, his second album, brought in a host of guest musicians. That said, Lagoon is not that different from the first Bird Streets album. And, in some ways, it may just be even better.
Opener "Sleeper Agent" eases us into things, the ballad serving as a mission statement for the moods that will populate Lagoon, while the sharper "Machine" seems Bird Streets' nod to "In the Street" by Big Star. And vibe is undoubtedly due to the presence of Big Star drummer Jody Stephens behind the kit on this one. Elsewhere, "Let You Down" stands a clear highlight here. The slow-build of the tune, and the bright melodic line combine to give a listener a vibe like Bleu or Five For Fighting. The song's radio-ready, and in another era, would have been a huge hit. "SF 1993", a heartfelt, McCartney-ish big ballad, has swells and valleys, and it's another real gem here. And closer "Go Free" sounds more like The Pernice Brothers than it does Big Star, even though it's another one with Jody Stephens on the skins.
John Brodeur has really upped his game with Lagoon. My only real criticism is that a couple of these dozen selections feel like they are a bit too long, but for the most part, everything on this album pleases enormously. Fans of any of the bands I've mentioned, or Aimee Mann (another guest on this record) or Michael Penn (Penn's collaborator Patrick Warren worked on this one too) should find lots and lots to love with Lagoon.
Lagoon by Bird Streets is out now.
[Photo: Shervin Lainez]