It can't all be sunshine and lollipops, unless you're a Miike Snow album. The trio, consisting of Swedes Christian Karlsson, Pontus Winnberg and token American Andrew Wyatt have been behind the scenes on a number of high profile pop songs, including the Grammy winning "Toxic" for Britney Spears. Now that they have some overrated accolades under their belts, it's about time they settle down to make some actual music.  Miike Snow, whose name is derived lovingly from Japanese foot hating filmmaker Takashi Miike, released their first self titled album to critical and commercial success.  Their new effort Happy To You, may not boast a big single like "Animal", but is a much better album overrall.

Leadoff track "Enter the Joker's Lair" starts off with a rather prog rock vocal line, before settling into a nice four on the floor beat surrounded by echoing layers of arpeggiators. I'm a big fan of Miike Snow's drum production, their beats have the feel of live drums but are compressed down to sound more electronic. This is what gives the band a more organic feel, despite their dance pop approach. Also, no matter how produced things get, you still have these warm, un-autotuned vocals at the center. If fans were mistaken that Miike Snow was a one man act on their first album, it's pretty apparent that this is the work of a full band.

It doesn't all work, however, their collaboration with Lykke Li on "Black Tin Box" is a bit of a bore, but brings in some nice strings at the end. "Garden" is a pretty forgettable track as well, but is saved by the terrific album closer, "No Starry End".  My favorite track on first listen is the unexpected ballad "God Help This Divorce", which I'm sure will find it's way onto some Garden State-esque hipster movie soundtrack at some point. All in all, it's pretty easy to say that Miike Snow are not a one album wonder, and have successfully dodged the Shitty Sophomore Album bullet. In case you haven't noticed, it's a nice day outside. Put this album on and go walk through the park with a smile on your face damn it.