Finally
Why "finally" you ask? Because I feel like I've been waiting for this wonderful freakin' album for ages.

Sure the Josie and the Pussycats soundtrack tided me over, but it just wasn't the same as a new Letters to Cleo album. But then again, neither should Cherry Marmalade be mistaken for the same thing as a new Cleo album.

The More Things Change...
Okay, I admit that Cherry Marmalade sounds a heck of a lot like a Letters to Cleo album. The similarities are all good things. Ms. Hanley's vocals. Memorable melodies. Hubbie/guitarist Michael Eisenstein. Enormously catchy hooks.

One of the changes apparent in the album is lyrics. The album seems to explore a more personal side of Kay. While maintaining a familiar power-pop feel, Cherry Marmalade is a more mature album.

Live or Memorex?
Those of you who haven't caught a live show, should. During the year and a half preceding the release of the album, I managed to catch Kay live at the Hatch Shell, the Lizard Lounge, and at Newbury Comics (all in the Boston area). It's from these live performaces that I fell in love with tracks Fall and This Dreadful Life.

Since picking up and spending some quality time with the album, I've fallen in love with the whole damn thing. Whether you're a Cleo fan or not, if you like rock, pick up this album.

Random Tidbits
The album is on Zoe Records and can be purchased at KayHanley.com.

If one morning you happen to be near Quincy, MA, stop by the Union Cafe.