Free Energy: Love Sign

Free Energy
Love Sign
(Free Energy Records)
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Go ahead, pull out that “More Cowbell” ’80s era t-shirt from the back of your closet because Free Energy is here to fill the bill as your newest retro-styled guilty pleasure. Along with cowbell, the quartet’s bell bottomed, skinny jean attack features chunky guitar riffs, singalong choruses, chanted backing vocals, thumping drums and a bunch of power popping songs about girls, girls and more girls. Producer John Agnello has established roots in this sound from his work with The Hooters, The Outfield and Scandal, but the slick varnish he slathers on doesn’t do this group any favors. Still, the melodies stick to your brain like flypaper and you get the feeling that live, with a rawer approach, these guys could be the soundtrack to your best night out ever. Back the future!