Summer’s back folks, and, as ever, its in need of a soundtrack. And lo, here come Joy Zipper with their new offering, waking from a long, drawn-out half-consciousness just in time for the sunny season. So far the New York duo, comprising real-life couple Vinny Cafiso and Tabitha Tindale, have quietly delighted fans with the somnambulant dream pop of 2000’s self-titled debut and 2004’s American Whip. Now they are back with The Heartlight Set, boasting a fresh new sound which, true to their name if not tradition, is both joyful and, er, zippy.
Opener 'Go Tell The World' announces their arrival in defiant style. A garage rocker in the White Stripes mould, it serves as an excellent, if unrepresentative introduction to the album. The general vibe here is a grungy, greasy haired take on 60’s pop, with songs evoking artists such as The Beatles and Burt Bacharach across the course of the record. Track two, entitled '1' perfectly encapsulates this vision with cooing harmonies and feel good, loved-up lyrics. 'For Lenny’s Own Pleasure', an amusing tribute to the decadent lifestyle of comedian Lenny Bruce, is another winner, recalling the languid psychedelia of Love.
Unfortunately, on occasion the upbeat tone of the music can wear thin, and the simplicity of the songs shows through. There are times you wish the songs would break into a sweat and forsake the happy-go-lucky feel for a little more urgency. Still, perhaps The Heartlight Set does offer the perfect soundtrack to the British summer; A bit patchy, with the occasional disappointment, but enough moments sunshine to keep you happy until the nights begin to draw in again.
