Andrew McMahon - The Pop Underground EP

Andrew McMahon of Something Corporate and Jack's Mannequin fame has released his much talked about debut solo EP titled The Pop Underground EP. The disc is markedly different than his previous material, but still has his trademark musical fingerprint stamped all throughout the disc that signifies another change of pace for the incredibly talented and gifted singer-songwriter.

The EP kicks off with the dazzling "Synesthesia", a track that has touches of electronic influences sprinkled about throughout the song, and Andrew's familiar and comforting vocal refrain runs its way through the crevices of the song at a steady and comfortable pace that is more than enough time for the listener to marvel over and see how far Andrew has come since his SoCo days. "Catching Cold" is my favorite track off the album, and one that has a more prevalent electro influence, but somehow it's able to connect with the listener in another dimension with its crafty wavelengths and spaced out time signatures that reach a new delight that sounds like something The Postal Service would create, and is an all around fascinating track and one to definitely put on repeat to get the full grasp of what Andy is trying to tell you lyrically. The disc continues on with "Learn To Dance" a toned out, simple structured track that features enhanced electronic components and Andrew's marvelous vocal work that once again puts him in a class all his own. The EP wraps up with "After the Fire" a melodic, joyous number that finds a way to link up the piano melodies and electronic delights, and finds a way to bring in Andrew's trademark sensibility and wisdom that helps the song achieve far greater than desired and allow the EP to wrap up on cue and on point. I've been a huge admirer of Andrew McMahon for as long as I can remember, dating back to my Something Corporate days back in 2002 and ever since, has remained one of the most talented musicians I've ever listened to in my life. I've seen him twice in concert with Something Corporate and Jack's Mannequin, and I've grown even more and more impressed with him since that time, from his skills on the piano and belting out passionate, heartfelt ballads that have totally inspired me from the get go as to how conduct my daily life, and become a more musically rounded person in the process as well.

In summary, a terrific and well executed effort from Andrew McMahon, who continues to amaze and inspire countless listeners alike with his trademark musical prowess running gamuts throughout the disc, and presenting a comfortable and confident singer-songwriter ready to take on the new challenges and adventures that lay ahead.

                                                                                                                        EP Score: 4/5

1. Synesthesia
2. Catching Cold
3. Learn to Dance
4. After the Fire