The Amber Smith - From Upper Lip to Lower Hip EP
(Version City)
Named after the Sports Illustrated swimsuit babe-cum-Playboy covergirl (or maybe it was just the same-named friend of bandleader and ex-BMX Bandit Lawrence Kim), this Brooklyn-based quartet plays power pop/bubblegum rock for the masses, but their cleverly-titled debut EP will probably best be appreciated by all you shorthaired, skinny-tied, pointy-shoed, gangly geeks whose idea of exercise is sweating off those gin and tonics on the dancefloor. Opener "Yeah Yeah Yeah" oozes vintage Knack, Rubinoos, and 20/20 nostalgia, making the following finger-popper, "1984" about four years too late, but its heart and happy feet are in the right place. They even toss in a slowdancing cuddlefest ("She Says It's All Too Much") to let you catch your breath, although it does sound like something that I'd dance to at a wedding. "You Don't Have To Stay (Go)" is a 21st century hootenanny - think Sha Na Na meets the Four Seasons at a backyard kegger/barbecue, and "Zelda" is another hook-laden sing-along that invites favorable comparisons to the beloved Shoes. So if your favorite TV show is "I Love the 80's" and all your favorite bands start with "The," this is the record to relive your formative years. Slap it on, crank it up and let it all hang out. My only advice to Kim & Co. is to go back in the studio and don't come out until you've got a full length for us.
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