ARTIST/LABEL NOTES:
Previously a download-only release, “Running Out Of Time”, the fourth and final album (and Kool Kat label debut) from Swedish garage poppers The Mop Tops, is full of strong melodies, chiming guitars and wonderfully catchy pop gems. From the Tom Petty-ish opener “She’s The One” to the sing-along beauty of “When I Was Young”. Other highlights include “Strange Weather”, “I Want You” and the title track. “The compositions, and the performance of these, are of such a high class that they would easily rank among the records I rank as the best on my record shelves. ‘I Want You’ could be mistaken for coming from The Barracuda’s ‘Endeavour To Persevere’ and ‘Strange Weather’ from ‘Drop Out With The Barracudas’. Tom Petty would surely be happy to take on ‘Even Losers Get Lucky Sometimes’ and ‘Queen Of Misery’ could work well as a comeback single for obscure Brian Copsey & The Commotions, who unfortunately only managed two singles in 1981. I’m still most impressed by ‘When I Was Young’, which corresponds to the best that genius John Carter wrote in the 60’s, and John Carter was certainly no lightweight as a composer. His track record includes songs he wrote with friend Ken Lewis for the groups they were both part of, or worked for, such as Carter Lewis & The Southerners, Ivy League and Flower Pot Men. Guitarist and singer Tomas Nilsson wrote all but two songs on the album – the powerful title track was written by his son Kim Nilsson and ‘Christine’ was written by the legendary Gene Clark together with John York and Pat Robinson. The songs prove Nilsson once again that he is a world-class pop composer. The Mop Tops are grandiose, brilliant and addictive.” – Raised On Records Tomas Nilsson is currently writing and recording his songs as a solo project. The Mop Tops still continue doing live gigs.
GAJOOB Review:
The Mop Tops’ “Running Out Of Time” is a splendid offering from the Swedish garage pop group. Initially a download-only release, this album, now making its debut on the Kool Kat label, is a treasure trove of melodic hooks, chiming guitars, and irresistibly catchy pop tunes.
The album kicks off with the Tom Petty-esque “She’s The One,” setting the tone for an album filled with memorable moments. The sing-along charm of “When I Was Young” is instantly captivating, while tracks like “Strange Weather” and “I Want You” showcase the band’s knack for crafting songs that are both emotionally resonant and melodically compelling.
The title track, “Running Out Of Time,” is another standout, demonstrating high-class composition and performance. The comparison of their work to that of The Barracudas on tracks like “I Want You” and “Strange Weather” is particularly noteworthy. The band also draws favorable comparisons to Tom Petty with “Even Losers Get Lucky Sometimes,” and Brian Copsey & The Commotions with “Queen Of Misery.” Yet, it’s the song “When I Was Young” that truly impresses, echoing the genius of 60s composer John Carter.
The majority of the songs on the album are penned by guitarist and singer Tomas Nilsson, affirming his status as a world-class pop composer. His son, Kim Nilsson, contributes the powerful title track, while “Christine” is a collaborative effort between legendary Gene Clark, John York, and Pat Robinson. The variety adds a touch of diversity to the album, yet all the tracks maintain a cohesive sound that defines The Mop Tops’ style.
The Mop Tops have delivered an album that is grandiose, brilliant, and addictive. Even though Tomas Nilsson has moved on to solo projects, the band continues to perform live, ensuring that their unique blend of garage pop continues to reach audiences.
Media: CD.
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Bandcamp URL: https://belugarecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-mop-tops-running-out-of-time
