Hank Kim – Blue Alibi
Hank Kim hails from Dayton, Ohio which yes is the home of Robert Pollard and the birthplace of Guided By Voices. Once, this album came across my desk the first thing that stuck out were the song titles “Candy Bar Killer” and “Another Broken Heart( At The 7 Eleven)” just to name a few. With names like I had to immediately give this a spin. “So Late” starts, and that voice in front of those strings grabs you, it’s so different yet so comforting. It has that power pop feel that gives a nice accessible sound. “Candy Bar Killer” the one I have been waiting for. The track has a great imagery and Kim’s distinct vocal really ups the track to a new dimension. “May Decemeber Girl” and “Party Sunny” are chop full of beautiful vocal melodies and some great lush sounds. A track like “Another Broken Heart( At The 7 Eleven)” really ends the album on a high note. It’s a dark and raw, yet stunning number from Kim.
I really didn’t see this one coming and those sometime can be the most rewarding. If your big into Guided By Voices and other indie pop bands, Kims unique vocal along with his pop sensibilities you will feel right at home.
By John Siwicki
