FM Static Critically Ashamed Tooth & Nail Records Rock 08-01-2006

SCORE 81%

It seems as though "reality" television programming has taken over the channel listings of all the major networks. Over the past few years, most of the new programming has fallen into this relatively new genre of entertainment. And Americans tune in night after night to chuckle in unison at disillusioned yet hopeful "stars" in the making as they face challenges, try out for famous bands, and do whatever the producers tell them. It's an interesting cultural trend that may stem from our desire to compare ourselves to others. Reality television grants us "actual" people to whom we can draw our comparisons.

With a light-hearted and fast-paced pop-punk-rock approach, FM Static returns to the scene with their sophomore release, just as summer heats up. The group fronted by Trevor McNevan (Thousand Foot Krutch) takes listeners on a brief, satirical look at the current status of the culture with tracks that take playful shots at reality television ("America's Next Freak"), the popular view of romance ("Girl of the Year", "The Video Store"), and the demise of the music industry ("Flop Culture"). On a more serious side, "Tonight" discusses the memories of a loved one who has died, while "A Nice Piece of Art" reminds us that God created us fearfully and wonderfully unique.

Musically, the album may very well end up on many "guilty pleasure" lists. It's a very simplistic style that fits almost entirely within the stereotypical ideal of a pop rock album with touches of punk influence. "Flop Culture" kicks things off with a straightforward pop-rock soundtrack a la Weezer or All Star United backing McNevan's vocals. The tempo remains upbeat and jovial with tracks like "Next Big Thing" and "America's Next Freak" before turning slightly more toned down and serious with a slower tracks. Self-produced, the album also features somewhat of a raw production quality which is the result of the band's desire to let the songs speak for themselves.

It may seem odd to listen to a rather predictable, somewhat formulaic song that bemoans the condition of a music industry for being too predictable and formulaic, but if you could set a satire publication in the vein of The Onion or Lark News to music, Critically Ashamed would most likely be the result. FM Static maintains a tongue-in-cheek approach to their music and, while one might easily bat a critical eye at the album, it's a quick and relatively painless release designed for a fun and laid-back listen.