:: Didn't Feel A Thing

Pollyanna

When all seemed lost for Pollyanna a couple of years ago, they now bounce back, albeit by way of the dedication of Matt Handley in taking on a virtual solo effort in writing some new songs and learning other instruments. He called back long time bassist Rayke Stapleton to revive the Pollyanna name and put his work into this new album. It comes off really well. During the 1990s they produced fine underrated music. The talent has strayed. Matt displays the typical passion and well-crafted songs that made once made them a hugely popular indie live act. Perhaps with the freedom he had over the past two years, Matt felt reinvigorated to produce what he has here. The lyrics remain strong and defiant and the solid arrangements are well captured. “Fisticuffs” typifies the Handley emotion. “Anchored” is a boisterous song, while “Beestung” shows a tender acoustic vibe. Such fire and passion in Matt’s singing indicates the feeling of giving this band one more shot. It’s worth listening for the slight change in arrangements and for a new calm in the manner by which the album came together.