Kentucky’s Ideal Free Distribution have been kicking around for almost a decade but are only now releasing their recorded debut. With some help from Elephant Six-ers Robert Schnieder (Apples in Stereo) and Jason Nesmith (an early Of Montreal member, currently of Casper and the Cookies), they’ve unleashed an album of 60’s influenced pop rock perfection. With catchy vocal hooks and lush arrangements tempered by occasional flashes of psychedelia and fuzzed out garage guitar, it’s truly a joy from start to finish. The only problem is the band lacks a distinct identity. Certain songs recall particular artists, like “Saturday Drive” (The Shins), “The American Myth” (XTC), and “Mr. Wilson” (duh, The Beach Boys), but there’s not an overall defining sound. If I heard a random track by them and didn’t immediately recall who it was, I doubt they’d be the first band to come to mind. Still, this doesn’t mar the listening experience in the slightest. Ideal Free Distribution have crafted a fine first album.
Mixtape tracks- Saturday Drive, Mr. Wilson
Freebies- None, but you can stream three songs from their MySpace page.