I’m not sure of the exact definition of what “power-pop” actually is; like most genres, I’m sure you couldn’t get any two people to agree on a definitive description, but if it is the ability to push pop songs through an alt-rock delivery system, then Handsome Midnight would probably fall into that category.
Musically, at least in terms of sonic weight and guitar riffage, you might consider them a rock band, but if you listen to their latest single, “Piece,” consider its infectiousness, its groove, its boogiesome qualities, its fun, and sonic buoyancy, then you would have to consider the possibility that it conforms equally to a pop sound. A power pop sound. It is the best of both worlds if you ask me…and if you are reading this, you kinda did!
Perhaps power-pop today is just what we used to call rock and roll in an earlier, less complex age; back then, the blending of rock and pop and the fledgling sound that became indie, had all the same hallmarks as this. And, here’s a test for you: if I had started this review by saying that this is a song by a band that used to open for Gin Blossoms or, considering Handsome Midnight’s hometown, The Replacements or, more recently, The Hold Steady then I’m sure you wouldn’t have disagreed one bit. See what I mean, rock music.
Genres, they get in the way, don’t they? Anyway, who cares what genre it is, just play it. Play it loud. Play it often.
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