What everyone knows about the Fastbacks is that their songs are filled with the kind of catchy hooks and to-the-point lyrics you'd expect from a seminal indie pop band. So, my question is, why are they not recognized as one? They certainly qualify. They've endured fifteen long years and produced (at least) six full-length albums, all of which were successful from a critical standpoint, and what thanks do they get?

Hopefully, New Mansions in Sound will set the record straight. It's solid enough to hold your interest and keep your feet tapping from start to finish, and to remain inside your head days after you've clicked off the power switch. It's a record most folks should probably not be without, but are anyway. Come on, turn off the Sebadoh and Sonic Youth and listen to some equally awesome Seattle pop you've never heard before.

-Ryan Schreiber