Russian Futurists

While the rest of the indie rock world is hell-bent on releasing fuzzy, crusty garage rock, Matthew Adam Hart (who records and performs under the Russian Futurists moniker) is content to stick to the road that has brought him the most success: insanely hooky, electronically-influenced pop. And it's been a propitious road; his first three full-lengths were all well received and, sonically, The Weight's on the Wheels isn't that grand a departure. All ten tracks are brimming with juicy pop goodness, the kind that caters to both discerning teenage mall rats and clubbing thrill seekers in their mid-20s. "Tripping Horses" is as close to full-on electronic as you'll find on the album, featuring Hart's trademark building and affable voice, while "Golden Years" sounds exactly as you'd imagine it would. Even the hardest of cynics would likely fall victim to Hart's entertaining charm. The only problem with The Weight's on the Wheels is its durability: the hooks it offers are easily digestible and ultimately, easily forgettable. While The Weight is indeed an entertaining listen, strip away the hooks and there's little sincerity. With no respite from every club-ready track, you can't help but wonder how genuine Hart's message actually is.