Sing, But Keep Going,
SherwoodI really enjoyed Sherwood's self-titled and self-released little EP last year. I say little, but it actually grew into something pretty big, hence the bidding war in the run up to this record being recorded. I think it was probably the fact that the EP lasted just a half dozen songs and refused to outstay its welcome that I enjoyed it so much - after all, their choppy made-for-the-OC pop rock could brighten any mood. The band's first full length, coincidentally their first for SideCho, is a catchy effort that hardly veers from the premise which made the band a success story from 2004.
And while that creates a sturdy base for a band looking to make a lasting impression, it doesn't exactly make enough forward steps for me to start throwing the superlatives. For me, 'Sing, But Keep Going' has standout moments; tracks where the band build up and unleash one of their patented catchy choruses, but this is merely followed up with a dull and formulaic track (some would say like my reviews, the motherfuckers) which brings the whole standard down. By no means bad, Sherwood just end up pleasant and nice and, well, a bit dull. I mean this is a wholesome all-American, cute-as-a-button record which will certainly sell well - I mean, how could it not? It's perfectly inoffensive with enough charm to convince your grandmother to part with her life savings. 'We Do This To Ourselves' and 'Learn To Sing' are perfectly hummable little ditties - especially if you're fond of the Cartel/Waking Ashland mall-punk (God, they've turned me American) - and are indicative of an album perfectly for summer listening.
paul
