The Shut-Ups

Item: It Hurts to be Seen
Author: Brian A. Smith

It Hurts to be Seen

(2004)

Reviewed by Brian A. Smith

Discogs Bandcamp TIDAL Spotify YouTube Music

Label Imperial FuzzThe Phantom Tollbooth2004

pop rock power pop ska

Now here's a group that defies classification. The Shut-Ups are all over the map on It Hurts to be Seen, combining ska with '80's pop rock, electronica, '60's harmonies, goofy humor, and quirky titles to come up with a very entertaining package.

The closest sound comparison I can make is to cross This Train with The Mighty Mighty Bosstones. "What's a Booty?" celebrates the un-hip nature of its protagonist, failing to realize that the disco generation of yesteryear has passed, and has given way to the hip-hopsters of today. It combines country strains with electronic beats, a combination that seems untenable, but they pull it off.

"Don't Know Why" and "Baby" mix Barenaked Ladies-like lyrics with a Hall & Oates sound. "Stupid Sissy Boys," an inspired shot at the boy band culture, shows elements of Beach Boys/Beatles style harmony. "Edgar the Nothing" and "Sneed," a tale of a childhood encounter with a burdensome person, recall Jellyfish at their best.

It Hurts to be Seen requires you to bring your sense of humor, but also reminds us that humor is often a smoke screen for the pain that lies underneath. A fun album in every way.

4 tocks