Despite the ambiguity inherent in their handle, The Sea and Cake will never be mistaken for slackers or shoegazers. In fact, this veteran mid-western ensemble boasts a sleek, sophisticated, adult appeal that recalls the melodic pastiche of Tears For Fears, Aztec Camera, the Lilac Time and Aja-era Steely Dan. The supple allure of “Lightning” and the breezy shuffle of “Too Strong” more or less set the standard with a mellow, willowy, cotton candy kind of aura. It’s easy on the ears, from the smart, stylish hooks of “Up On Crutches” to the razor-sharp riffing of “Crossing Line.” While there’s nothing wrong with a soothing respite - especially given today’s stressful circumstances - the soft day-glow sheen also lends a sameness to their sound, especially when those euphoric tones begin to lose their luster six or seven songs in. At that point, only the darkly churning and slightly skittish “Left On” manages to pierce the glaze. Still, Everybody flows with the easy drift of a daydream - a seductive, euphoric and wholly guiltless pleasure.
--Lee Zimmerman
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