Fine China – Don't Frown 7"
Label: Velvet Blue Music
Style: Brit-Pop, Alternative, Synth-Pop
Released: 2005
My Grade: 3 stars
AMG: n/a
Sounds like: Soviet, Leiahdorus, Pilots vs. Aeroplanes, Arkport


Don't Frown was released on 7" pink vinyl to give us a sample of what the new Fine China album "The Jaws of Life" would sound like. There are two songs included in this release. Side A contains the title track. This song harkens back to the glory days of the 80's where synths and hair crimping reigned supreme. The bass line that carries this song is glorious throughout. The melody is very restrained yet poignant. A very catchy tune indeed. "Don't Frown is also included on the "Jaws of Life" full length album.

The B-side to this pink gem is "Lovelife Windycity (demo)" which is currently exclusive to this release. It's definitely different from the A-side.

Rob Withem and company take us through this gorgeously heartbreaking tune. It's stripped of the normal Fine China extras: guitars, keyboards, etc. The end result is a beautiful ballad that seems to get better each time you hear it. If you have never heard of Fine China before this would be a good release to get a taste to their unique brand of pop and if you are already a fan I think you should invest in a record player and give this baby a whirl!

Reviewed by: Aaron

Official Website: youmakemehatemusic.com