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Butterfly Joe is a new band featuring Joe Genaro and Dean 'Clean' Sabatino, two members of the long-defunct joke-rock combo the Dead Milkmen. Given this pedigree, it's not surprising to hear Butterfly Joe's mildly twisted takes on pop music. The leadoff cut, "Happy Imbecile Song," sets the stage, sounding uncannily like the Violent Femmes in the throes of laughter. The twee arrangements featuring xylophones, acoustic guitars, and a few shots of brass are an unsettling step away from Lovano and Clean's spastic past. Still, there's no escaping the shadow of their former band; people who didn't find the Milkmen stimulating still won't appreciate this (somewhat) softer fare. Those who favor a side of smile with their musical confections will enjoy the nakedly goofy ploys of Butterfly Joe. Standouts include the quick Beat Happening parody "Seventeen," "What Did Her Autopsy Reveal?," and "Wisconsin," a Dead Milkmen cover. --Jason Josephes