Details: Grouplove’s first album, released on Canvasback Records and Atlantic (2011). Digipak CD packaging. Small corner tear near UPC and spine, light shelf wear.

Description: “It’s been ten years since Grouplove met on a commune in Greece and brought the idea of forming a band back to California. They’d never have anticipated making it this far: five albums, multiple chart-topping singles across alternative and pop formats, a Grammy nomination, and critical acclaim from outlets such as Rolling Stone, which heralded the group as a band who have perfected big, radio-friendly rock songs.–Rough Trade

“Los Angeles-based indie rock outfitGrouplove’s 2011 full-length debut,Never Trust a Happy Song, builds upon the neo-folk/rock and dancey indie rock of their 2010 self-titled EP. Still featuring the talents of lead vocalistsHannah HooperandChristian Zucconi,Grouplovetends toward creating passionate, anthemic pop moments that are equal parts post-MGMTindie soul and post-Killersdance-rock. Songs “Tongue Tied,” “Spun,” and “Love Will Save Your Soul” have a rollicking, post-punk exuberance while more hippie-dippy cuts such as “Colours” and “Naked Kids” (a carry-over from the EP) bring to mind such psychedelic touchstones asthe Flaming Lipsand late-’60sBeach Boys. In that sense,Grouplovealso fit nicely next to such similarly inclined contemporaries asLocal Natives,New Villager, andBlack Kids. Ultimately,Grouplove’sNever Trust a Happy Songis a cohesive if ramshackle crowd-pleaser, full of melodic double-lead vocals, handclaps, ringing electric guitars, and staccato synth parts that tips a hat to ’80s dance-rock while still retaining the band’s obvious love of experimental ’60s folk-rock.”

Grade: VG+ (Digipak) / M (CD)

CD TRACK LISTING:

1. Itchin’ On A Photograph
2. Tongue Tied
3. Lovely Cup
4. Colours
5. Slow
6. Naked Kids
7. Spun
8. Betty’s A Bombshell
9. Chloe
10.Love Will Save Your Soul
11.Cruel And Beautiful World
12. Close Your Eyes And Count To Ten