If your first introduction to a band is on some show centered on teens, then most likely your expectations of them aren’t too high. Well, the first time the name Rooney ever entered my mind was on the show “The O.C.” so it wasn't exactly the best method of delivery, yet enough to peak some interest. Enough interest was generated to warrant time dedicated to their recent release Eureka a good listen.

Now not really knowing their previous albums, it’s not entirely clear how this new album compares. But, as far as a work of musical art, it’s pretty good. On the first song, “Holdin’ On,” the melodic tendencies start early. The guitars spend most of their time punching out the notes to focus out the dance melody, as opposed to much of a rhythm base. This actually ends up working rather well with the attention split between lead vocals and lead guitar. And it’s those lead vocals that you really should pay attention to, as there’s a rather interesting story going on.

With the increasing popularity of bands like Phoenix and their slightly 80s dance-pop music, it’s easy to see why Rooney chose to take at least one of their songs in a similar direction. “I Can’t Get Enough” is extremely catchy while it takes an OK Go-ish groove and mixes it with some repetitive lyrics poised to easy get stuck in one’s head.

“Into The Blue” comes in as a personal favorite. This comes from the intro which mellows out and tones down the vocals and sets them next to a piano. All of which end up sounding VERY Beatles reincarnate. The guitar even manages to go drawn out and bluesy confirming that much more, the Abby Road feeling in this selection.

OK, now, take that 80s dance-pop, add a little 70s funk and you’ll get “Stars And Stripes”. A white pants suit with some awesome bling would fit perfectly with this song. For this number, you won’t so much want to dance, but rather stand in one place and groove. The piano is back and carries the entire song. The vocals add about as much emphasis as the light percussion, yet both come out very sexy. But wait, just as you get past the half way mark everything changes. The sexy is gone and replaced with something more along the page of a St. Peppers Band song, complete with a triangle and harmonica. This is one of the most dynamic songs for sure.

The last one to talk about is “Not in My House,” which is completely off the chain. It all starts with a simple, but powerful, bass riff. Eventually a guitar comes in with some progressions that rival guitar greats like Chicago or Cream or even currents: The Dead Weather. The vocals are very raw and rock-esque. Every thing in this song is perfection and makes it the one on the album most likely to be on constant repeat.

When first going into this album “impressed” was definitely not a word that I would expect to be uttered. But, in fact, this album was impressive. The band has shown the many, many layers and vast levels of talent they posses. It’s an excellent library addition.

Review by: Rachel Fredrickson

Additional links:
- Purchase Eureka
- Rooney's official website
- Rooney on Myspace