The Polyphonic Spree

Yes, It’s True (Good Records)

Thirteen years have flown since the Polyphonic Spree touched off its confetti cannon into the cultural consciousness. A thousand soiled robes later, Dallas’ symphonic pop choir unveils its fifth full-length, Yes, It’s True, an inconsistent collection of life-affirming pop that lurches uncomfortably like a 50-year-old twerking at a bar mitzvah. All the characteristics of a Spree disc remain, including blatting brass notes (“Popular By Design”), and a funky homage to David Bowie, the band’s champion and mentor (“Heart Talk”). There’s demonstrable maturity in instrumental arrangements coupled with a nostalgic nod toward frontman Tim DeLaughter’s Tripping Daisy (“Blurry Up the Lines”). Yet there’s also a painfully earnest vapidity undercutting the whole LP. “Hold Yourself Up” sounds like it belongs on an animated children’s show, while ballad “You’re Golden” finds DeLaughter decrying the trappings of culture: “It’s not your phone with an i/It’s not your Facebook likes/It’s not your Instagram bride.” Oof.

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This article appears in August 9 • 2013.

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