The Glad Version’s debut full length CD Smile Pretty Make Nice could be described as the acoustic-electric mix of Toad the Wet Sprocket, the biting lyrics and moodiness of Pedro the Lion and vocal styling of the Eels. In one standout track, “Cruelty of Modern Life,” a bouncy verse in 7/8 time transitions seamlessly into a catchy, smoothed out chorus. Adam Svec melds effortlessly with fellow guitarist Chris Salter singing, “When it comes down to it, are you helpless to fight all this emptiness filling your life?” Salter pulls off a number of impressive guitar solos and interludes, displaying skill without endangering the feel or momentum or the song. Another highlight, “Options and Absolutes,” creates a shivering winter landscape of flubbery acoustic guitar strings. This song describes a welfare office sending poor people away, a subject that hits all too close to home in Minnesota in November. Many other songs deal with relationship heartbreak without becoming whiny or pitiful. The album closes with a stomach-wrenching song called “Sand,” in which sounds of toys lay a backdrop for lyrics of problematic childhood leading to tragic adult life.
Smile Pretty Make Nice was recorded and produced by John Hermanson (Story Hill, Alva Star, Olympic Hopefuls) who was nominated for 2004 producer of the year at the Minnesota Music Awards. Together with Hermanson, The Glad Version was able to make an album that ranges from catchy to dark while maintaining an eerie feel all the way through. In addition to the two-guitars and bass and drums, instruments such as lap steel, accordion, trombone, synthesizer and even a theremin are used to create ambient layers behind a dynamic rock sound. Songs like “Taking Stock” end with rung-out guitar chords that fade into sounds of monks, angels, or ghosts that transition from one song to the next like walking through boxcars on a haunted train ride. Combined with Adam Svec’s hushed, yet strong vocals Smile Pretty Make Nice creates a sound that will keep it returning to your CD player, if it ever leaves.
The Glad Version plays Friday, November 19th at the 400 bar w/ Love-Cars and Superdanger. $5 in advance, $7 at the door
