Capitol/Lazy Hooks

Los Angeles-based Capital Cities, founded and fronted by Ryan Merchant and Sebu Simonian, go big with their debut full-length, In a Tidal Wave of Mystery. The anthemic, uplifting single “Safe & Sound” has already made its way into several TV spots – not surprising for two jingle writers who met on Craigslist – and the blogosphere, following their self-titled EP release last year. The highly danceable record, produced and mixed by the duo, offers funky beats and propulsive hooks. Highlights include the bouncy and synthy “Kangaroo Court,” the playful and catchy “I Sold My Bed, But Not My Stereo” and the aforementioned hit single – and all are full of horn blasts and hopeful, feel-good lyrics. Midway through the album comes a surprising shift in tempo with the funny, radiocommercial- like “Farrah Fawcett Hair,” featuring Andre 3000 and Shemika Secrest, narrated by NPR’s Frank Tavares. These high-energy, electro-dance-pop songs are poised to become anthems of this summer.