The Oohlas, “Best Stop Pop” (4.5/5)

To be completely honest, I had to give this album more than a few spins before I settled down on my bed to write this review. This by no means suggests that I didn’t like the straightforward jangle pop that marks The Oohlas’ sound. Quite on the contrary, I adore it. I adore it to the point where I don’t know how to quite encapsulate it with words.

Hailing from Los Angeles, California, The Oohlas consists of Olivia Stone (vocals/guitar), Mark Eklund (bass/vocals), and Greg Eklund (vocals/guitar). Most listeners would be surprised to learn that the latter Eklund was formerly the man behind Everclear’s drum set, but don’t let that put you off – “Best Stop Pop” is chock full of wonderful lo-fi tunes. For some reason, the album reminds me of a fresher version of the indie pop Eels.

Olivia sings lead on the majority of the tracks, and her unique vocals are difficult to place. More accessible than the ethereal Eisley and punkier than Rilo Kiley, “Best Stop Pop” offers an incredibly refreshing twist on the female lead. The songs sung by her Eklund counterparts are equally amazing, and since I am one who tends to lean towards male vocals, songs like “From Me to You” and “Across the Stars in Blue” just might be my favorites.

“Small Parts,” the fourth song on the disc, was featured in the Spider-Man 3 soundtrack, and it’s popularity is surprising considering it is not the album’s best effort. Songs like “Gone,” the opening track, and “Octopus” are definitely smoother and more original. Overall, “Best Stop Pop” is packed with twelve incredibly catchy pop gems, and it’s guaranteed that with a little development, The Oohlas could very well strike gold.

Favorite Track: Across the Stars in Blue



Reviewed by: Kate