Heypenny

A Jillion… Heypenny

A Jillion Kicks

Unsigned

Grade: B

Rocks Like: of Montreal, MGMT

While Nashville, Tennesee, is usually know for being the world’s country music capital, Nashville-based band Heypenny hopes to change that with the release of its second album, A Jillion Kicks.

Catchy, quirky and full of jittery energy, A Jillion Kicks is a melting pot of indie pop and rock influences. Heypenny generally has the sound of MGMT, especially on tracks like “Purple Street,” but with the lyrics and vocals of bands like of Montreal and Be Your Own Pet. On some songs, there is an evident ’80s influence; — vocalist Ben Elkins’ voice is especially reminiscent of the sound of bands such as the Cars. Other times, Heypenny’s style is more akin to ’50s doo-wop, even remindful of the ’90s band CAKE on the track “Emperor’s New Clothes.”

“Water” proves to be the standout track on the album, and it is really where Heypenny comes into its own. While you can still hear outside influences, they don’t overpower the band’s own music. Vocals are spat out quickly and in an impressive falsetto, the guitars rip and the drums are kicking, and handclaps give the song the sense of whimsy that keeps it in line with the rest of the lighthearted album.

The major issue with the album is the lack of consistency, and not just with style. At times you can hear the band turning the energy up to 11, but the musical quality doesn’t follow, almost as if the musicians are trying too hard. It’s when the band takes a step back and hones in on its own style that Heypenny really shines. While its energy might be infectious, for the most part, Heypenny’s A Jillion Kicks is not quite as remarkable.