Big One, The

7th album from L.A.-based singer-songwriter, Dent May. Known for his low-fi bedroom pop created on his laptop. For this album, May headed into a recording studio with a handful of guest players. The lyrics are warm, sun-bleached and romantic — but also a little sad and regretful at times. The expanded instrumentation of a full band and strings give the many ballads and light power pop tunes depth. A lot to like on this one, especially May’s highlighted singles. RIYL: Andrew Gold, Ben Folds, Drugdealer, H. Hawkline, Matt Maltese and Nilsson or any similar early 70s pop rock artists.

Recommended: 2, 3, 7, 4, 11, 1. No FCCs noted.

1. (2:50) Here We Go Again — Breezy sunshine pop with sweet vocals. Chime-y piano and synth. Energetic beat. Plus, banjo and violin. **
2. (3:06) I Remember… — Perfect 70s-style pop rock single. Very H. Hawkline vibe. Piano and horns under May’s harmonized vocals, which soar into his falsetto range. ****
3. (3:38) The Big One — Whimsical piano ballad with a steady pulsing beat that confronts the fact that there will eventually be a major, life-changing earthquake in Southern California. ****
4. (3:03) I Don’t Like You (But I Love You) — Simple, bouncy piano-based pop with a carefree skipping rhythm. Strings as well. ***
5. (2:46) I Want To Believe — Another light, lilting, snappy pop tune featuring piano and melodica or harmonium. Sad, hopeful lyrics.
6. (3:55) Silly Me — Dreamy, gentle flowing ballad. Swelling vocals. Lovely piano arpeggios. Full orchestration.
7. (3:21) Second Wind — Starts as another slow piano ballad, playing off of being too tired for a night out. Then, shifts gears to an upbeat pop tune with Beach Boys-like energy and harmonies. Slows again at the end. ****
8. (3:25) I-55 — Road song vibe with a hint of the Doobie Brothers or Allman Brothers Band. Light and jazzy, with a tripping beat and vibrant guitar interlaced with keys.
9. (3:18) Last Night I Saw A UFO — Swaying pop tune set to a bossa nova rhythm. Witty and fun lyrics about an encounter with a UFO, which none of the lead character’s friends can believe.
10. (2:50) Such A Thrill — Strummy guitar and keys, wrapped in a twirling waltz. Lush strings in the lead break.
11. (3:50) Tell ‘Em All I Said Hi — A poignant, sad chamber folk closer with fingerpicked guitar, strings and May’s vocals covering his impressive range. ***