The Pains of Being Pure at Heart, self-titled

reviewed by dave heaton

”We are so sure / we will never die /oh no we will never die,” the NYC-based trio The Pains of Being Pure at Heart sing on their eponymous song, from their eponymous EP. It’s a perfect approximation of the attitude of youth, when you think you’re invincible. This band has the youthful sound to match it: driving energy and a guitar-and-drum-machine cloud of noise surrounding catchy pop melodies. Youthful, but at the same time classic, in the indie-pop tradition. The bouncier, messier side of that tradition, that is – think of the Pastels maybe, or the most upbeat songs by bands like the Field Mice, 14 Iced Bears or the Razorcuts. Or don’t think at all; just listen and enjoy. This CD presents a brief set, a tuneful outburst pulsing with the idealism of young love. “This love is fucking right!”, the first song proclaims, even if everyone else is certain that it’s wrong. That’s a great title, as is “Doing All the Things That Wouldn’t Make Your Parents Proud”. Great, emblematic titles and great songs, too, as are the other three. I like the “Orchard of My Eye” title phrase, and the sound of the line, “Please don’t tell me I’m your friend / I am not your friend,,” as it’s sung, Kip Berman’s voice rising at the “I am not.” This CD rushes past, but not without leaving an impression – you’ll sing along after just a couple listens, which is a testament to the songwriting and the exuberant way the songs are played.

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