Tokyo Police Club is a band I've always known about, but never really gave a chance. Last time they came to Buffalo the show sold out before I could get a ticket and I've put them on the back burner ever since. Well, with their return to Buffalo this coming Sunday, I think its time we give this electro-pop quartet their due.

Champ is the 2nd effort from these Canadian rascals and in no way does it even come close to a sophomore slump. With a more mature and polished sound, its funny how the album flows with themes of being young and reckless. Late nights in the back of cars, and parties that don't stop still the sun comes up. They may be a couple years older but their still young enough to try new things and dream the big dreams. Musically speaking there is that metaphorical smile and glimmer in the eye that shines strong in this new batch of songs.  It has a bright and glittery upbeat synth sound that fits well with current tour mates passion pit but also has this mid 90's alternative rock feel. It only makes sense that they play such an excellent and enthusiast rendition of The Rentals 'Friends with P'.

In all, Champ is an album that grows on you with ever listen. With interesting time signatures and stop and go break dance drum beats your initial impression might be that something on these songs sounds off, if not a little awkward. They seem to zing when you thought they should have zag. But with time and a few more listens those awkward moments start to make more sense. They start to seem less weird and more clever. By the end you realize they knew where they were going the entire time and all you needed to have was a little faith.

Check out the song Bambi below
Tokyo Police Club - Bambi by buffablog