Review
"Welcome Interstate Managers," the third studio escapade from Fountains of Wayne, is basically the Swiss Army knife of albums—it's got a little slice of everything! Released on June 10, 2003, this album came to life after the band was given the old heave-ho by Atlantic Records due to "Utopia Parkway's" underwhelming stint on the charts. Instead of wallowing, the band responded by self-financing and producing this gem—a true sonic phoenix rising from the ashes. The trio of "Mexican Wine," "Bright Future in Sales," and "Stacy's Mom" turns their creativity dial up to 11, with "Stacy's Mom" leading the charge like an earworm general, storming the US Billboard Hot 100 and landing delightfully at number 21.
Now, lest you think this record is a one-trick pony galloping in the shadow of "Stacy's Mom," think again! The tracks showcase a delightful range of styles, tiptoeing through genres like a musical jack-of-all-trades. "Fire Island" paints with the breezy strokes of '70s AM Gold, while "Little Red Light" kicks up a power-pop storm worthy of a music festival. And who's adding kaleidoscope flavor to the mix? None other than James Iha on the guitars for "All Kinds of Time," and "Supercollider," which takes a delightful detour into psychedelic streets. Speaking of Easter eggs, the heartfelt tunes "Hey Julie" and "Valley Winter Song" offer a cozy cuddle against a lyrical landscape, all wrapped up in a surprising lack of cynicism. "Welcome Interstate Managers" masterfully balances between office-ordinariness and commute-time contemplation, making it an album that truly puts the 'power' in power pop. - Toby
