In The Book Of Bad Ideas is sprinkled with infectious tunes. “Stiff Arm At The Still Water” is an invigorating foot-tapper that will have you nodding along. “Let Me Know When It’s Yes” boasts 60’s rock melodies and jangly guitars that vividly highlight their power pop influences. Elsewhere, you can discover more lo-fi tracks in “Helium Drag” and “Enceladus Lexicon,” which also incorporate new wave synths into their backdrops. It’s worth noting the invaluable contribution of Don Thrasher’s impeccable drumming (formerly of Guided By Voices and Swearing at Motorist), which propels this album ceaselessly forward. His precise drumming can be heard not only in a song like “Since The First Time I Heard You Laugh” but consistently throughout the entire album.

This album is a delightful reminder of the enduring appeal of power pop, and Smug Brothers pay homage to the past while establishing a distinct presence in today’s indie music scene. With their catchy hooks, shimmering guitars, and the focused vocals of Melton, they’ve crafted an album that not only resonates with die-hard fans but also possesses the potential to captivate a broader audience. In The Book Of Bad Ideas is a joyous, toe-tapping, and irresistibly melodic collection of songs that serves as a testament to the timeless charm of this beloved musical style. It may very well stand as one of Smug Brothers’ finest records to date.