the 31 best of 2008 – 21: The Weepies – Hideaway

Here’s the most basic thing I can say about the Weepies: basically, if Paul Simon would have teamed with a woman instead of Garfunkel, you would have the Weepies. However, with that being said, they bring a freshness to the sound pioneered by Simon and Garfunkel, and with Hideaway,they have made a fantastic and warming record that is a treat for the listener. The first song on the album, Can’t Go Back Now, instantly captured my unwaivering attention because of the simplicity, and immense beauty of the song; sometimes, the simple things really are the finer things in life.

On Hideaway,the Weepies have crafted a collection of subdued harmonies, which they use to weave an eloquent pattern of sweet and somber folk-pop songs. I read somewhere that their name is a play on one way of describing chick flicks, which I find completely appropriate; seeing as many of their songs would fit snugly within almost any endearing scene in one of those very movies.

I have to say, that I just love that these two are making music, one, because they compliment each other so wonderfully, and two, because it really only makes it more sweet that they are married in real life. Singing sweet love songs to each other, about each other, is utterly sincere and completely speaks to the hopeless romantic in me. It’s like a real life version of the movie Once (except a LOT more upbeat)!

Overall, being a huge fan of folk-pop music, this record completely delivered for me in every way. Each track is skillfully crafted, and most of these songs would fit perfectly being played behind a real life moment (or, at least the portrayal of one in a film). If you are a fan of great folk-pop, this record is a fantastic contribution to the genre, and one of my favorites of the year. I will say that the super cute cover is what brought my attention to the Weepies, but after hearing their amazing music, I have been all ears, and will definitely be paying attention to them from here on out.

Sparkle Factor:
Standouts: Can’t Go Back Now [audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_725_theweepies-cantgobacknow.mp3]
All Good Things, Orbiting, Wish I Could Forget.