Doe Denim describes himself as a “MIDI singer-songwriter from Denver” and that pretty much tracks with the level of self-awareness and humorous detachment that Denim’s music reflects, but you’d be making a huge mistake if you didn’t take him seriously. 

From the first 10 seconds of the single “Sweden” a couple months ago, I was convinced Doe Denim would be one of my favorite songwriters and the new album Fake guitars has got me feeling like my instincts are pretty solid.

This album has pretty much everything you could stuff into a record.

A capella opener? Check.

Bloodhound Gang style electro pop bangers? Check “Sweden”.

Sludgy grunge rock anthems complete with a total, if fleeting, vocal homage to Kurt Cobain? Check “Lint”.

A rap song with a beat and a hook so good they would pass in any pro label pitch room? Check “Mama Said”.

Melodramatic modern emo-tronic anthem? Check “Time Won’t Stand”.

Stadium sized indie rock mashup with hints of Brit pop and Cake and … you know what? Just listen to “I’m Expanding My Mind”. I can’t describe this anymore.

Throughout the record there are ridiculously good hooks, hilarious lyrics, and just a general vibe that I want more and more of.

Somebody get Tom-Tom Club to make an album with Doe Denim. ASAP.