Twink, the Toy Piano Band! Twink, the Toy Piano Band!

Review of Critter Club from Babysue

There are very few artists in the world who have an image, style, and sound as clearly defined as Twink. The toy piano project created by Mike Langlie, this band's image and sound have become so stylized that Langlie really has no competitors because he has created such a unique presence in the world of music. The latest Twink album is, once again, a direct bull's eye. Although possibly the most accessible album yet (?), Critter Club is cut from the same wonderful fabric as previous releases but this time there is a heavier reliance on traditional instruments backing up the toys. Even though you might not recognize the band name there's a very good chance you've already heard Twink music before. Langlie's music has been featured/included on various television shows on MTV, Nickelodeon, and Comedy Central.

The tracks on Critter Club are ultimately creative, fanciful, humorous, and emotionally gripping. Rather than coming off like novelty tracks featuring toys, these songs have all the characteristics that make great pop music. Cool melodies, superb arrangements, and an overall vibe that is simultaneously offbeat and extraordinarily appealing. Assisting Mike this time around are musicians/audio engineers Casey Paquet, Groundfish, Joel Hagglund, Rafi Sofer, Paul Meurens, Matt Renzi, George Berlin, and Mike Quinn. Although more commercial sounding than previous releases, Club is by no means a sellout in any way, shape, or fashion.

Mike is not only a songwriter and musician of the highest caliber, but his artwork is also nothing short of fantastic. This album is housed in an imaginatively designed cardboard sleeve complete with three professionally produced playing cards inserted inside (to tie in with the image of three masked animals on the front playing cards). Thirty-six minutes of pure audio bliss. Reward yourself with the sounds of Twink. It will quickly release your inner child and simply make you feel...great. Highly recommended. TOP PICK.

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