PT Bruiser

10. Pickin’ Up The Pieces by Fitz and the Tantrums

I initially purchased this album on a whim, but my suspicions that I would like its soulful stylings were confirmed quickly, and Pickin’ Up The Pieces got heavy rotation from early October on.

I’ll admit that I don’t love every track. “Dear Mr. President” departs from the band’s typical emphasis on love and break-up for a little crusade against economic inequality, and in my mind it doesn’t quite work. The catchy refrain of “L.O.V.” that “Love is a feeling” seems quite wrongheaded to me, but of course, Fitz and the Tantrums’ relationship advice is probably incompatible with my worldview for a number of reasons.

They still deliver a fresh mess of indie soul jams that are fun, catchy, and easy to sympathize with. Fitz and the Tantrums started a musical kick for me that led me to Mayer Hawthorne, Otis Redding, Curtis Mayfield, and others. I won’t be shelving this album for some time. Don’t miss “Breakin’ the Chains of Love,” “MoneyGrabber” (their first single), and “Don’t Gotta Work It Out” (available free on their website).

They also have a free Christmas song (“Santa Stole My Lady”) available here.