(S)

While the name is the same, the faces have changed for this album. Andrew Kaffer is still the main songwriter and voice of Kissing Book though he has surrounded himself by a different group of friends. The main addition that has changed the sound for Kissing Book would be the expert drumming of Adam Bayer (former drummer for Mooney Suzuki and main guy behind The I Live the Life of a Movie Star Secret Hideout). The off beat and precise drumming has given the album a flowing jazzier feel. With the addition of the Wurlitzer Organ, Kissing Book has gone from cute to sexy. Perceived as a "twee" band since their first recordings, Kissing Book has out-grown any preconceived notion that there is any lack of depth or soul in this new batch of pop songs. Andrew's crooning of the soulfully heart-breaking lyrics would make even the prudish person swoon. Drew Cramer who has been playing live with the band for awhile adds his talents to this record with his heavy bass hooks and strummy guitar. Behind the boards for "(s)" is legendary pop icon Dustin Reske (Rocketship). Dustin adds his own touch on backing vocals and as a guest guitarist and gives it a beautiful atmospheric sound. The cohesiveness and new jazz element to the record makes you think of a lounge rather than a bars wine rather than beer.