Kid Mountain: 'Happies' (2012)

“Happies” by Kid Mountain is an eclectic Indie-Pop album.

The opening track (entitled:'Parashootin') starts things off with high, heavily effected vocal verses and a little non-lyrical hook that gives everything a lighthearted- almost surf rock sound somewhat similar to The Shins.

The following track (entitled: 'No Place') amps up that surf sound, with reverb dipped guitar that noodles around playfully on a driving beat.

Songs like “Vermont” are distant pieces, devoid of lyrics. The sound is very mellow and textural, with the sounds of rain and room ambiance accenting a piece that sounds vaguely reminiscent in spirit to Yo La Tengo's “Green Arrow”.

Mood-wise Kid Mountain manages to pull off a sort of melancholy feel, while always bringing it back around to sounding genuinely hopeful. No easy feat, as many bands try to go for the “bittersweet” appeal and only manage to sound bleak.

Altogether “Happies” is a solid production, and remains an enjoyable listen that flows well throughout.

“Happies” by Kid Mountain is available via their Bandcamp page.

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, Cincinnati Music Examiner

Michael Rickert is a writer and performer currently living in Cincinnati Ohio. He has spent the majority of his adult life at open mics and full concerts in bars and coffee shops, at house shows, and in basements where bands practice. When he isn't listening to live music he's sifting through...

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