Meese, 'Broadcast'

Denver's latest have the right pop hooks, no semblance of edge

By Kirk Miller

Metromix

Release date: June 30, 2009
Record label: Atlantic
Official Web site: http://www.meesemusic.com/

The buzz: Rocky Mountain rockers Meese are cut from similar cloth as that other recent (and wildly successful) Denver musical export, the Fray. Their music is a solid, accessible mix of modern rock and piano-led pop...that leaves absolutely zero lasting impression.
 
The verdict: Swelling guitars, piano-tinged ballads, occasional programmed beats and vaguely yearning lyrics delivered in an emo-ish, high-pitched whine? That’s all Meese, who add a lot of texture to each of their bland-but-enjoyable pop-rock anthems, creating a pleasantly forgettable mishmash of U2, Jimmy Eat World and Jack’s Mannequin. Exception? The dance-rock groove of “Next in Love,” which comes off more like a toothless Young Love. Overall: Edgy? Not in the least. Bound for a future “Grey’s Anatomy” soundtrack? Definitely.
 
Did you know? For now, the band’s claim to fame is once headlining over the Fray…who, after enjoying multi-platinum success, were nice enough to return the favor and take Meese out as an opener.