As soon as you put it on, this album screams, “California!!”. Well, the sound of these Los Angelinos, GROUPLOVE, haven’t made a bad record since their inception in 2011, and this, being their sixth album, is an example of why these energetic, 1990s-influenced indie-poppers are so consistent.

They consist of a married couple, Christian Zucconi and Hannah Hooper, who, besides sharing lead vocals, contribute keyboards and rhythm guitar, respectively, include the other original member, lead guitarist Andrew Wessen, and Daniel Gleason on bass since 2014, and drummer Ben Homola who joined in 2017.

GROUPLOVE was the last band I saw live before the pandemic turned the world upside down. It was March 4, 2000, in Camden, London. It was fantastic (well, before the whole ‘world turning to crap’ part.)

If you want a band with positive energy, meet GROUPLOVE. “I Want It All Right Now” starts with single “All,” where Christian said via DIY magazine it was: “…our way of asking, “Why do we always want something more than what we have?” So many of us are stuck in this perpetual cycle of seeking some type of validation or fulfillment from the outside world when it’s very possible that everything we need already exists within us.” 

The lyrics start: “In my mind, I think I’m gonе. In my mind, I can’t turn off. I wanna have a good time, wanna be fine wine. I want it all right now.”

But then there is a resolution, with Christian determining that what he has is good, he can’t have it all right now. Really, no one can: “I wanna take a long ride with you by my side. I wanna be alright now.” 

It’s the sort of GROUPLOVE song where you initially think, “OH YEAH!!!” but then, there is this introspective end. Hey, think about it.

The album goes from there in such a landslide of fun, demonstrating how they’ve never really changed.

“Cheese” is punky (“Stay close to the cheese. Stay close to all your memories. Don’t worry about me. ‘Cause this is where I wanna be.”), while “Hello” sounds like GROUPLOVE at its finest and most sparkliest. It’s catchy from the first verse.

“Eyes” is another highlight, but one where Christian states that it is: “A song about death. “Eyes” explores the fleeting nature and impermanence of life. If I were to die tomorrow, the only thing that truly matters is that I surround myself with love and give love.” So, so true, Christian.

That may sound heavy. It’s still catchy, though.

“Tryin’” was written by Christian, a neat rocker, with lyrics like: “Help mе fall asleep, yeah. Nothing as tried and true as taking it day by day. Wе are all holding on, but we’re gonna find our way.” Basically, we’re not giving up. Not now. Especially post-pandemic. Certainly, not now.

You can imagine later songs like “Climb” performed live – what’s great about GROUPLOVE is that they make that sound like it’s happening in your kitchen or living room (or wherever). I’ve read it elsewhere, but this is a band to be enjoyed live – though they’ve brought that feeling – that feeling of listening to them live – on your doorstep. Or whatever room you’re listening to this album to.

“I Want It All Right Now” blends in nicely with their discography. If you like dynamic, borderline-Pixie(ish) 1990’s alternative rock music that will make you smile, you must listen to and, if possible, really try to see GROUPLOVE live.

We are getting older. But who cares. Damn, they’re still fun, and this album proves it.

“Wе are all holding on, but we’re gonna find our way.”

We’re not giving up. Not now.

8.0/10

Chris Garrod, August 4, 2023