Rooney is what today's music should be about.  Good music, real lyrics and talented musicians.  You can tell that they are having fun playing.  Rooney came together seven years ago in the Los Angeles area and began making music. After producing two indy EPs, they signed with Geffen and released their self-titled debut album, however, after their songs began being highlighted on shows such as "The O.C.," they began to gain some popularity.

They have a sound that reminded me of some of the "new wave" bands that were popular during the early 1980s, but they have more depth to them.  They are not all pop, but have a musical background to keep them propped up.  Their tracks are very well produced, although a less "refined" and grittier sound might have worked better (for me) on two or three of the tracks.

My favorite song on the album is "Don't Come Around Again."  It reminds me not only of those early 80 bands, but at some moments has a Beatles like quality to it. Okay, maybe not as good as the fab four yet, but Rooney still has a lot of time to mature.  "I Believe In Me" is also another gem on the album -- a must hear.  A lot softer then the general mode of the album, but some good lyrics.