#reviewoftheweek / Bag Of Toys - Eating Monsters

Bag Of Toys are severely underrated. Sure, their blend of acoustic pop is the kind of music that seemingly only a certain type of music fan can love. You hear elements of Jack Johnson and Bob Marley and Sublime all throughout, however, these guys are blending acoustic pop and lyricism with the same ease and intensity as was going on in the 60's. They've, of course, put an updated modern twist on that style, and on this album, they'd surprised us with a large collection of new tracks that are fun and bouncy without seeming like a continuation of previous releases. Their west coast vibe is evident, and on songs like "Hold On Me" and "Callin' All Friends" you are reminded as to why this band puts you in a good mood all the time. Their light hearted and subtle comedic side is always present, and this time is no different on songs like "Stinky Gorilla" and "Boner In My Baggies." "Love" is another standout track, showing off a bit of simple reggae influence, which is absolutely present on several other tracks. Bag Of Toys can be an unfamiliar band, but they have a familiar sound that makes their newest album excellent.

BURN THIS / July 2015

1. Matt Nathanson "Gold In The Summertime"
2. Family Of The Year "Make You Mine"
3. Moon Taxi "All Day, All Night"
4. The Revivalists "Keep Going"
5. Anderson East "Satisfy Me"
6. Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats "I Need Never Get Old"
7. Tim Rogers & The Bamboos "Easy"
8. Allen Stone "Freedom"
9. Leon Bridges "Better Man"
10. Alabama Shakes "Sound & Color"
11. Dawes "Right On Time"
12. Rayland Baxter "Yellow Eyes"
13. Angus & Julia Stone "From The Stalls"
14. The Staves "Make It Holy"
15. William Fitzsimmons "Pittsburgh"
16. Chadwick Stokes (featuring Lucius) "New Haven"
17. Xavier Rudd & The United Nations "Flag"
18. Slightly Stoopid "The Prophet"
19. Blues Traveler (featuring The Dirty Heads & Rome) "Vagabond Blues"
20. JJ Grey & Mofro "Ol' Glory"