Over the past week I have listened to the Jonquil EP approximately 30 times. Over the past week I have had approximately 30 different opinions of the Jonquil EP. Most of the time, I would catch myself tapping my feet and rocking my head to the clean, Beach Boy-like guitar riffs. Other times I was frustrated that I could not make out the lyrics Hugo Manuel (a.k.a Chad Valley) is singing.

The band has described themselves as “Paul Simon’s take on The Smiths.” Personally, I think it is a bit vain to compare yourself to such a monumental artist such as Paul Simon, the man that wrote “Call Me Al.” However, if you pick up this record, you can expect to hear what most would liken to Jonsi Bergisson singing Vampire Weekend.

The problem I have with this EP is that there is a lack of exploration or dynamics. You can break down nearly every song in one formula: Synth-driven intro+Verse+Chorus+clean guitar riff+Bridge breakdown+clean guitar outro=Jonquil EP. It is hard to differentiate between the first single, “Fighting Smiles,” and any other track.

What I enjoy about this EP is the tone. As I went through the week, I would find myself wanting to listen to this EP if I was in a bad mood and next thing you know, I’m dancing.

Overall, I will continue to listen to the Jonquil EP, but if you’ve heard one song, you’ve heard them all.