CD Review: Citizens Of Contrary Knowledge - You're What You Wish You Are

Citizens Of Contrary Knowledge - You're What You Wish You Are
2006 Arbinsongs/BMI

I mean, come on, how seriously should you take a band whose lead singer was on NBC’s Singing Bee with Joey Fatone. If Citizens Of Contrary Knowledge’s debut album, You’re What You Wish You Are is any indication, you should take them very seriously indeed. New York City based Citizens Of Contrary Knowledge has a sense of melody that rivals that of U2, and a sense for keen hooks that sweep you away into their songs.

Opening with the funky Complicated, Citizens of Contrary Knowledge throw down the gauntlet at the outset of You're What You Wish You Are . Complicated has real chart potential with the right push. Lonely Hearts Society continues the blues/soul flavor in a heavier rock song. Citizens Of Contrary Knowledge have an amazing sense of melody and harmony, and an ability write these wonderfully hook-heavy rock songs. House Of Cards is one of those songs that stick in your head. I've been humming it for days now without any provocation.

You're What You Wish You Are is the sort of debut album most bands dream of. It's got subtlety and great rock and roll all at once. You're What You Wish You Are is a must-have album. Your collection isn't complete if Citizens Of Contrary Knowledge isn't in the mix.

Rating: 4.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Citizens Of Contrary Knowledge at www.citizensofcontraryknowledge.com or www.myspace.com/citizensofcontraryknowledge. You can purchase a copy of You're What You Wish You Are at www.cdbaby.com/citizensock.