Fountains of Wayne: Welcome Interstate Managers

Fountains of Wayne try to craft the perfect rock pop song, the kind that will play prominently in the background of movies made for teens. They try 16 times in a row. Each time, they use a major key, a boppy beat, catchy lyrics, and an attention-grabbing hook. Everything is pleasant, easy to digest, energetic. Who cares what they’re singing about? It’s fun. Welcome Interstate Managers aims to please. They’re not trying to achieve something deep, meaningful, challenging, or worth lots of listens, so their poppy formula works beautifully. All the songs could sell movie soundtracks. Sixteen for sixteen, guys.

Rating: * * * *