Dawn Landes

There are some mighty fun times to be had at the Sweet Heart Rodeo, people. The third album from Louisville-born, Brooklyn-based Dawn Landes is a sonically distinctive folk pop collection that integrates creative instrumentation into complex, hook-heavy melodies. A sometimes-member of the orchestral folk rock outfit Hem, Landes' solo work is playful without being precious. The darkly poppy opening track, "Young Girl," makes way for the bouncy, organ-based hop and skip of "Romeo." The infectious backbeats and understated horns of "Money in the Bank" lead into the relentless, addictive splashes of cymbal in "Love." The kitschy organ loops of "Clown" are followed up by the gritty wail of harmonica on "Wandering Eye." And so it goes throughout, with every track boasting a fresh sonic treat. Landes' wry lyrics take on some heavy subject matter but the unique arrangements create an overall upbeat and refreshing quality that compels repeated listening.