Deliciously Retro4 Out Of 5 Stars
The Explorers Club and "Grand Hotel" are so behind the times that they've made a minor miracle in their album. It's like eating the old three level jello deserts from my childhood. There was a frothy foam on the top, a whipped creamy middle and the juicy, fruity jello bottom. The music on "Grand Hotel" is layered almost the same way. The top seems comprised of foamy Beach Boys and California harmonies, the middle a pastiche of Herb Alpert and Sergio Mendes, the juicy main portion a mixture of such iconic song masters as Jimmy Webb/Glen Campbell, The Association, a touch of Beatles, Mama's and Papa's, The Turtles, and so many other ingredients that you'll get lost in the many chambers. When you put a song called "Sweet Delights" on an album that shamelessly pays homage to The Tijuana brass, you know you're probably headed for a love/hate relationship...like seconds on your deserts.
It makes "Grand Hotel" idiosyncratic and a bit frustrating. To be able to record an album in this day and age that slavishly recreates this classic pop sound without being a punchline takes serious dedication and talent. Yet you wonder what lead singers Wally Reddington, Jason Brewer or Dave Ellis really sound like when not aping Brian Wilson, as brilliant as "Run Run Run" or "Any Little Way" sound. Or to uncover if the band's love of the sounds they've recreated are genuine or some kind of grand art project? Or, you may ask yourself, why over-analyze The Explorers Club? "Grand Hotel" is a breath of ocean breezes that'll give you good vibes...even if this is music you'll also think your mother should know.
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