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It's hard to believe that this is the tenth LP in 13 years from this prolific, yet virtually unknown L.A. dreampop trio, who even seem to revel in their anomymity. Led by David Steinhart, formerly of the 1980's band Pop Art, they make no promises of giant stylistic breakthroughs. But that's OK, for they continue to churn out gorgeous, well crafted pop music, expertly produced by John Glogovac. Buttressed by the sturdy, potent rhythms of original bassist Cindy Albon and dremmer Glogovac, SBH's songs are overflowing with chiming, shimmering, and swirling guitar tapestries, over which Steinhart croons his graceful, soaring vocals. The LP is consistently excellent, making you thankful they've perservered. THE BIG TAKEOVER The Los Angeles-based trio Smart Brown Handbag has been together for over 12 years, and Harry Larry marks their 10th independent release. This experience is evident from the beginning of the record as energentic drums circle around wailing guitars, synths and lead singer David Steinhart's Brit-pop vocals. Highlights include the self-deprecating title track and the New Order-esque "Stand Up". The orchestrated pop of "Sour Grapes" is another sure winner.The music of Smart Brown Handbag pushes boundaries even as it sounds vaguely famailiar. They're the Beatles' sarcastic older brother, they're the Smiths on a happier day, and they're just as stylishly crisp as their namesake. PERFORMING SONGWRITER On Harry Larry, Los Angeles alt-rock trio Smart Brown Handbag joyfully ply dour melodies adn dark atmospherics aplenty akin to such genre-defining 80s' stalwarts as Concrete Blonde, The Smiths, The Cure and Depeche Mode. But this record is no retro ride down bad memory lane. Singer/guitarist/songwriter David Steinhart tempers his predictable suffering with glimmers of hope embedded in his steady baritone. Steinhart throws Ferry-by-way of-Dylan vocal twists throughout the verses of "Stand Up" just to emphasize that he's really okay. "Sour Grapes" a tale of self-doubt and woe is the stuff of Ray Davies paranoia or perhaps Morrissey before he took himself too seriously. Handbag's secret weapon is drummer Glogovac who also doubles ..s, strings, found sounds, and noises, affording Smart Brown Handbag a unique aura. AMPLIFIER
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