Album Review, Best Of 2010 (So Far): Tokyo Police Club - Champ

Pre-2010, the basic expectations from Toronto based Tokyo Police Club were clear and distinct. This is a group of guys who make fun, free-wheeling music that doesn't go too deep or require too much from the listener. If you are looking for an emotional plunge or a musical transcendence, don't waste your time looking too hard. For the rest of you, hang out for a bit if you are up for a quick fix in the form of a two minute pop-punk nugget. This is hardly a condemnation as many bands cannot find that proper mixture of joyous energy and warmly embracing yet indelibly catchy songs.

Tokyo Police Club's second release Champ was nothing unexpected and made no sudden change in their established style. Yet, the album was a true surprise because it is, as a whole, better music. Most obviously, the average song length on Champ is more than a solid minute longer than their earlier releases. The new tracks never feel drawn out or overextended; Tokyo Police Club now just have more to say. The themes here are more thoughtful, mature and articulate. Granted, nobody will ever mistake Tokyo Police Club for making overly heartfelt, self-aggrandizing music (Hi U2!). Thank goodness that oft-made misstep wasn't, and will hopefully never be, made. Enjoy the three tracks.

Buy the new Tokyo Police Club album here.

Tokyo Police Club - Wait Up (Boots of Danger)


Tokyo Police Club - Breakneck Speed


Tokyo Police Club - Bambi