My Old, Familiar Friend

iTunes Review

Before Brendan Benson came to most people’s attention as a member of Jack White’s Raconteurs he was crafting his own pleasurable power pop for discerning ears. Now with a raised profile and an expanded recording budget, Benson can carefully tailor his ideas to more accurately reflect his ambitions. This extra-smoothness is a double-edged sword since Benson is by nature a smooth operator and it’s the extra gruff that gives his music the necessary edge. But mostly the extra money and care means the guitars are slightly manicured and the harmonies are seamless. “A Whole Lot Better” bristles with a ‘60s vibe. “Eyes On the Horizon” twists and turns on a serpentine guitar line and vocals that sneak onto the scene. “Gonowhere” slips into a ‘70s-styled laid-back environment. “Misery” channels Elvis Costello with its verbal flights. Traces of David Bowie, Paul McCartney and other pop superstars can be heard if not exactly nailed down. It’s as if Benson imagines a radio station he wishes existed and is busy stocking its playlist.