J+J+J -- They Hump While We Go Nuts

They hump while we go nuts. Well, the title sounded interesting, as did the initial sound bites that I listened to. That is actually saying a lot considering that during my last check for new music to review there wasn't really much that jumped out at me.

I am wondering if this disc represents what generation "Y" is up to. I can sort of deal with the fact that it is done entirely with synth. Synth keyboards, synth drums, and the occasional synth strings for good measure. What I can't deal with is the vacuuousness of the songs. I would love to say that maybe that's the point and I'm just missing it. I'll certainly allow for that. The problem is, groups like TMBG put together songs like this all the time and have been successful in building a career off of it. The big difference is TMBG has the ability to turn a colorful phrase once in a while. Where TMBG is able to come up with colorful ways of approaching nearly any given subject, J+J+J is limited by lyrics such as "Skeeball has wooden balls/ The mall has indoor stores/ Put them together in the ring to see what will be my favorite thing."
How about -- WTF?
At this point I have Snowballs at her Face playing, and it's so damned literal. Is that what songwriting is about?
Maybe I'm the person who wants to point and say the emperor has no clothes. Maybe I just don't get it, but I'm inclined not to lean that way. I think this disc is another example of someone releasing a disc "because they can". They're not the first, and they won't be the last.
The news isn't all bad, though. There are a couple of redeeming tracks on this disc. At this point, as I struggle to make it through 'til the end, they are "Highschool? You mean inverted caste system" and "'Suits' in Japan". While also both very literal, they each possess a quality that makes them a bit more pleasing to the ear. It is this same quality that makes Hiddden Closet Sandwich rather appealing. For this track, think a little of Architecture in Helsinki. It's a bit quieter and more melodic with a light and airy vocal.
If you want background on the group, check elsewhere. I'm just giving you the lowdown on the music, such as it is. For as harsh as I've been, I think they will probably have a pretty sizeable audience. It's pretty simple and straightforward stuff, but it surely has a place in the music scene today. Gads, what sort of statement is that? I may cut off my pinky when I'm done typing this. If J+J+J found a way to be more creative and less literal, I think they could really be big, but until that happens, I think they are just another group among thousands just trying to do their thing.
Final notes-
Some of the songs segue, which is always cool.
As mentioned, pretty shallow stuff.
The last couple of tracks are remixes of earlier versions. Remixed and MUCH cooler.
And finally, this is why priveleged white kids shouldn't make music. There. I said it. Flame on.

Final grade-- a whitebread C.