Don lennon the one-man party band
Jonathan J. Casey | the twin cities | 06/02/2001
(4 out of 5 stars)
"With this many songs about parties ("Party All The Time," "Party In September," "Party Coordinator," "Turn The Living Room Into a Dance Floor"), you should be able to decide for yourself if you'll love or hate this album. Don lennon is the bastard child of morrissey and Jonathan Richman (with a touch of doktor kosmos). "Definition of Love," the opening track, is a song I couldn't live without, and I was shocked to find to this album is from 1997 - it's taken me that long to get ahold of it. This is one that's worth seeking out, though, if only for the one note guitar solo (with a forced "yes!" shouted off to the side). Singing often ridiculous lyrics with an earnestness that borders on pathetic, Don Lennon is a master of the standard three chord pop song. I get the impression he played all the instruments, and he does it well. "Dance Music" is hilarious, and is where the Dr. K. influence is apparent (or coincidental, since "Cocktail" also came out in 1997). Don admits he reveals more of himself only when he's "talking to a girl" (at a party perhaps?) and that he needs his friends (in - what else? - "I need friends"). We see two sides of Don however, as he complains about being forced to go to a party ("they made me go, they made me go, they made me go" he moans) and that "it's cool to be alone." the title of the album, "Maniac" also clashes with the stiff cover photo of Don from the shoulders up, unsmiling. As much as this all comes off as a joke, I can still appreciate it, not to mention relate to it quite a bit. I think "Take Back the Night" is the only misstep here, but it's a momentary lapse amidst an otherwise charming, and extremely brief, pop outing. Find this album and turn YOUR living room into a dance floor. and then cry yourself to sleep clutching a bag of cookies."
Amazing Pop tunes, very clever
Jonathan J. Casey | 03/12/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"A simply great sound"
It's a good record!
Jonathan J. Casey | 02/26/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"it sounds like a great debut! i liked it"
Track Listings (14) - Disc #1