It is always good to try something new, and I have to admit having never heard of The Uglysuit when passed a copy of this, their debut album. I've worn a few ugly suits in my time, but that's about as far as it goes and these Oklahoma noise freaks were a very pleasant surprise. They do share some similarities with Oklahoma's other famous sons, The Flaming Lips, as there is a psychedelic edge to their music. Thankfully though, this does not cover up the craftsmanship of their songs. There are some great melodies here, enhanced by the off kilter moments rather than smothered by them. Opening track 'Brownblue's Passing' is a real case in point, with an extended guitar break caressing you with wave upon wave of glorious sound. 'Chicago' is also an excellent song, a sun-soaked tribute every bit as spacious as the city itself. Piano and keyboards also play a key part in this album, in the simple introduction to 'Brad's House' and the swirling carousel sounds of 'Anthem of the Arctic Bird', a musical waltzer of tight rhythms and tapped drums.The high spot though is the glorious '...And We Became Sunshine', a long rambling song full of ideas. It all sounds so American, and could belong to any era of music from the past 40 years, a timeless blend of hazily stroked guitars and patterned piano. At the midway point the track builds and builds, colliding with itself into an absolute treat of a song. This album belongs to the summer, and the winter months unfortunately don't do it justice. It is the sound of warmth, the sun of your face and the roar of the ocean, and a very fine debut indeed. 71%The Uglysuit on MySpace