MUSIC REVIEW

Shiny Toy Guns' 'III' is impeccable

By AP's Mesfin Fekadu

[October 24, 2012]  LONDON (AP) -- Shiny Toy Guns, "III" (Five Seven Music)

From its opening track, the runaway love jam "Somewhere to Hide," to its closing number, the piano tune "Take Me Back to Where I Was," Shiny Toy Guns delivers a flawless collection of tunes on its third album, "III."

The beats throughout are flavored with dance, rock and synth-pop sounds enhanced by vocals from Chad Petree and Carah Faye, who has rejoined the Los Angeles quartet after leaving the band and missing out on 2008 album "Season of Poison."

Her voice -- light and satisfying -- blends magically with Petree's on songs like "Waiting Alone" and the outstanding "Carrie." Faye also brings on the swag on the rock-charged "Speaking Japanese" and "Fading Listening," with its summertime hip-hop beat. Her return is much appreciated -- and much needed, helping make "III" one of 2012's best.

CHECK OUT THIS TRACK: "Somewhere to Hide," the first track, is where you should start.

[Associated Press; By MESFIN FEKADU]

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