The Davenports, an established name in the indie-pop world, have released their fifth studio album titled ‘You Could’ve Just Said That’. It serves as a wonderful showcase of frontman Scott Klass’ sharp storytelling skills combined with infectious melodies. Known for creating a perfect blend of wit and emotional weight, this time Klass seems to be more introspective and plays nearly all the instruments on the album. The outcome is a cohesive deeply personal album that is still playful and charming like all of Klass’ previous works that his fans love. The album’s start is marked with “When Everything’s Over”, which features an unparalleled hook and unrelenting pace. It discusses moving on without getting too overwhelming. That makes it the perfect choice for an opener, providing an outlook into the rest of the album. Another amazing song is “The Annabellas Of The World”. Undeniably, it has one of the strongest choruses and while moving fast, also feels very nostalgic and calming. Combined with the feeling of nostalgia is Klass’ imagery of yearning and missed opportunities sealed in a tune best fitting in a 90’s college radio mix.
With an equally brilliant and captivating hook, “I Am Lying” fixes the oversimplifications of the prior song and greatly focuses on the lyrics. There is a unique feeling of confessing because it makes the song intimate but extraordinarily broad at the same time. The most distinctive song on this album is “If You Put Me Next To Patti”. It has witty lyrics and an incredibly engaging melody, and overall, it just sounds effortlessly cool. Sharp guitar riffs coupled with a singalongable chorus make “We’re Talking About You” lean towards the power pop direction, which can be enjoyed by many. Klass’ vocals are at the forefront in “Full Length Mirror”, which is the most emotionally exposed song on the album that deals with one’s self-image and perception. His singing is supported by an uncomplicated musical backdrop which makes me feel exposed. It’s Davenports when it comes to the title song “You Could’ve Just Said That”. Davenports are whom you refer to when it gets wry yet extremely relatable and catchy at the same time. It’s about the irritation that surrounds useless chit-chat and, or somewhat, the absence of conversation. A mood shift is slightly introduced with “I’m Not Gonna Bother You” and what a tune it has. Still feeling restrained, the song reels you in, even as the silenced moments of the album carry heft.
Deeply honest yet heartfelt, “When I Tell You That I’m Sorry” takes the crown when it comes to the verses that are blended with a dramatic backdrop, making it feel like a motion picture. Ending the album with a good positive vibe, “We Know We Want To” serves the purpose of reminding us that, believe it or not, at some moments, we possess everything that we are desperate to look for. ‘You Could’ve Just Said That’ is a gem of an album. There’s an ease to the sound and yet every cut feels meticulously executed. For the umpteenth time, Scott Klass proves why he is one of indie pop’s most underrated songwriters. Longtime fans of Fountains of Wayne and Ben Fold’s will love it, but even first-timers won’t be disappointed.
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