This definition perfectly describes the poppy rock tunes heard on Nashville quartet The Comfies' seven-track EP, Close to Me. Each song is comprised of beautiful harmony and head-tapping rhythms that can be enjoyed in the comfort of every room. While snuggling with that old tattered blankie, catchy melodies and refreshing sounds create a pleasing atmosphere that will make anyone smile.
The group, formed by Washington D.C. native Benjamin Adam Harper, produces music that resembles a mixture of Ben Kweller, Spoon and New Pornographers with a hint of The Kinks. Frontman Harper, the former bassist for Doghouse Records group Feable Weiner, recruited the talent of Nashville friends; Nathan Hansen on bass, Sam Smith on drums and multi-instrumentalist/guitarist Raf Celvallos helped him create a musical band of his very own. Like many up-and-coming bands these days, The Comfies gained a wider audience thanks to the wonders of MySpace. The band's unique sound caught the attention of Colin Cobb, president of Limewire Recording, and they now have a promising EP to show for their work.
After chatting with Cobb, The Comfies recorded and mixed Close to Me at Vintage Vibe Studios in Alpharetta, Georgia. The recording itself is said to give a peek into the band's ability to create amazing live music.
In just seven tracks, The Comfies showcase an infectious sound that will leave listeners returning for another dose. Some highlights include the third track, "In Your Room," which incorporates the contrast of a unique chorus and percussion to create a matchless love song that escapes the traditional sappiness and sorrow. This leads seamlessly into the next track, "Your Sunshine," which begins with a beat box sound before integrating descending voices and a legato section that blend together gracefully.
Although all the songs hint at a similar style, this group of young guys is constantly forming new ideas and variations of songs to make memorable, long-lasting tunes. Harper, the principal vocalist, wrote all the lyrics heard on this release. Harper's inspiration comes from the most unpredictable places. The naturally talented frontman created the acoustic "Dear Miss Anderson" one afternoon as he sat in a studio and played on his guitar while getting ready to record.
Even though Cobb fell in love with The Comfies without seeing them live, he was blown away after witnessing their stage presence and overall show quality. Even though this indie album was just released Oct. 10, the band has been sharing their harmonious music at several shows from Chattanooga, Tenn., to Atlanta, Ga. The smaller venues they have played at support the meaning behind the group itself: being comfy. Although the band is not selling out large arenas, no one should be fooled by their relatively low profile. On the contrary, they are drawing attention from all over the country. Fans all over the states are spreading their contagious harmony and ultimately upbeat sound. The Comfies effortlessly compile a great sampling of music definitely worth some added attention. This is surely only the beginning for these Nashville rockers.
Grade: 3 out of 5 circles.