When last I checked in with my buddy Tom Slatter, he was having problems with alien creatures and other oddities on “Fit the Fourth.” It was a confusing album for a basic American idiot such as myself. But undaunted by lack of understanding of it all, I know talent when I hear it and Tom is a talented bloke.

So now, Tom is back with “Happy People” which is take on a SLIGHTLY more straight forward approach. Well okay this is straight forward for Tom. The title track sounds like the intelligent alternative to “Shiny Happy People.” It’s certain a pop tune but not the stupid, vapid drivel that’s on the radio or ever was. It’s really great track with a killer hook. And the more you hear this song, the more you want to hear it again.

“Name in a File” combines tunefulness with the odd slant that Tom is known for and good at. It makes for a great one-two punch to start the album out. “Flow My Tears, The Policeman Said” reminds me a little of Tim Bowness for some reason. Given that I love what Bowness has been up to, that’s a good thing. “Even Then We’re Scared” feels like the quirky Tom Slatter that I have come to know and fear.

“Fire Flower Heart” has a sweet beauty to it. This is another winner of a track. But don’t get too cozy because Tom cannot resist being left of center and at times way left of center. “Tracking Signals” is the proof. While the album doesn’t have a full on epic track, the closing song “All of the Dark” is as close to an epic that “Happy People” has to offer. It’s a great end to a very good album.

So Tom clearly decided not to confuse me nearly as much on this outing. “Happy People” is a very enjoyable album from a guy who clearly loves making music. I assume that he will go sailing off the deep end the next go round. Until then, I am fine with these happy songs.

Rating: 8/10

Tracklist:

1. Happy People
2. Name On A File
3. Satellites
4. Flow My Tears, The Policeman Said
5. Even Then We’re Scared
6. Fire Flower Heart
7. Tracking Signals
8. Set Light To The Sky
9. All Of The Dark

Label: Bad Elephant Music
Bandcamp: tomslatter.bandcamp.com