Sunflower Bean Twentytwo in Blue

Sunflower Bean finds liberation in music on Twentytwo in Blue. It's a noble aspiration for the Brooklyn trio, whose affection for classic rock resounds with a timeless spirit. Fronted by Julia Cumming's cherubic vocals, the band put forth a stylish fusion of pure rock n' roll swagger that is brimming with sharp hooks and an effortlessly cool swagger.

If it wasn't any more clear, Sunflower Bean makes that sentiment clear with a charming, glammed-up sound on Human For, an anthemic call which strives to follow the tastiest of rock cliches - follow the beat of your own drum. In spite of that, their intent is well-meaning, and it does puff up with a heartfelt chorus. The homage is more pointed on Burn It - which they can take claim as their own Bang a Drum - a fiery opener that makes a great impression with its crunchy, head-bobbing groove.

Sunflower Bean may struggle to maintain that glam rock posture, but they sure have gotten better at writing wholesome power pop songs. Cumming convincingly channels her inner Chrissie Hynde on Memoria, a truthful affirmation on letting go where they take on a minor key melody. Crisis Fest draws a sharper contrast to Memoria, but it maintains a similar economical arrangement, where they balance their cheerful disposition with sharp guitar riffs and processed handclaps.

Even if Sunflower Bean know how to carry a tune, a good portion of their songwriting choices can come across as clumsy. But even if they don't exert their confidence to their fullest extent, their themes on emotional and financial uncertainty find a place within the discontent of their generation. At times, it may not agree with the sleaze associated with their older, carefree influences. Instead, they envision a musical template where rock n' roll can be inclusive and honest, and not dangerous.