Review Summary: Bad Books deliver in style.
When two respected artists collaborate, the results are usually nothing to write home about. The world of rock n roll hasn't been blessed with a "supergroup" in the last couple of years, that has anything substantial to offer(as the experiments of Broken Bells and Them Crooked Vultures have sadly demonstrated). Why aren't Bad Books another superletdown? Its quite simple. The members of Manchester Orchestra and kevin Devine happen to be great friends on and off the stage, and have toured and collaborated extensively together since (2007) . You can't smell a trace of ego on all 10 tracks.
Bad Books definitely inherited some tight-ass genes from its parents. The songs smoothly blend Andy Hulls ear for killer melodies, and Devines witty, political, and endearingly provocative lyrics.For the acoustic tracks, think Elliot Smith ghost writting songs for the Avett Brothers(Texas,I begged you everything). The more aggresive side of the record brings to mind the pop rock of Teenage Fanclub, and The Posies.(You wouldnt have to ask, Holding down the laughter) The twenty something year old chutzpa of Manchester Orchestra and kevin devine does not let them settle for mediocrity. Bad Books do not disappoint.
