TapeOp Oct. 2008 Here Comes Everybody: The Veronica Project "I can't review this album objectively because I've been friends with Michael Jarmer and Rene' Ormae-Jarmer-Here Comes Everybody-for about 10 years. I participate in the same songwriting group as they do--The Veronica Lodge--AND I've done the designs for their last three CDs. So don't trust me. HCE's drum set, keyboards (usually baby grand piano or electric piano), bass and vocals sound like Harry Nilsson, Elton John and Bend Folds all rolled up into one. The music and moods of these songs bounces easily from casual romps to more melancholy musings. I've always liked their songs because they evoke such clear and engaging scenes and stories. This is what happens when an English teacher (Michael) writes lyrics. But what's surprising to me is that the words come after the music in their composing process. Apparently, René bangs out instrumentals then hands them off to Michael. Several times at our so

Better than talking to your best friend, you'll get the scoop with "Ice Cream," feel like you're on the inside track with "Sherpa" and "Spring," and float thoughtfully along with "You Had A Boat," "Drown at Sea," and "The Water Is Fine." As in all HCE songs, you'll find some fabulous takes on cliches, snappy melodies, sing-a-long smiling backing vocals, and Michael's effervescent quirkiness in voice, styling and word pictures. They're the puppy with the funny ears you just gotta take home!

Their best yet. Typically smart, fun, funny, and fearless, "Veronica" nonetheless mines a new vein for HCE. Fans and newcomers alike will recognize the wit and whimsy behind "Hang Up and Live," "Vodka," and "Hester Wouldn't Tell Us," while "Sherpa" and "Spring" layer in a deeper, darker -- yet no less melodic -- tone. But it's the album's second half, home to the "water series" of songs, where the band hits their stride. The highlight is the gorgeous, wistful "You Had a Boat," whistle-snappy and beautifully sad at once. It's pop, it's poignant, it's darn near perfect.