IFLTS: 'Presents,' Via Audio

'Presents,' Via Audio
From 2007's 'Say Something'

Via Audio are my new favorite cause. I want to help the whole world learn their name, learn their tunes and learn to love them the way I do. These kids think in terms of pop confections, creating tunes that just beg to be sung. Give them a listen and you'll pick up on hints of both of Montreal's whimsical pop tunesmithing and delivery akin to fellow IFLTS alums, Mates of State. The simplicity of their melodies is a beautiful thing to behold ... and catchy as hell.

But don't let that first impression of simplicity fool you. Repeat listens reveal a more earnest construction with real smarts behind the wheel. Each member has a point of view. Each song a marked style, presence and personality. The songwriting is downright formidable at its highest points, as you can plainly hear on their debut, 'Say Anything.'

Trying to pin down just one favorite song is maddening as hell. Can't I just pick songs 3-6 and call them my one favorite song? They're all in a row, you know. And I freakin' love those songs.

OK, fine. After locking myself in my room with my iPod, I've decided the album's first single, 'Presents,' is heaven itself. It makes me happy. And if one can only listen to a single tune, this one hints at all the joy the others bring. Via Audio have discovered the secret to the elusive quality of immediate accessibility, which turns casual listeners into instant fans. I dare you to resist.

What song do you freakin' love? Write our next IFLTS. Send it to us at spinnereditor@aim.com