Shepizzle

I can’t help but smile as I listen to Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, I try not to take them too seriously and I think that is how I have been able to enjoy their music. I mean with a name as bizarre as Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, you don’t really expect these guys to take themselves seriously, right? Wrong.

CYHSY has a sound that is as cool as… well, you know, something that is cool, like a surfer rock band that has been washed up on the shore and is maybe just a little bit on the waterlogged side. Frontman/singer Alec Ounsworth’s voice is very distinguishable and too be quite honest, I find it humorous and fun, others might just find it annoying. It really seems like he makes very little attempt to stay on pitch or to pronounce his words clearly. The music isn’t anything super special, mostly repetitive and simple, but it makes a good soundtrack for a day of wakeboarding at the lake. Just kind of laid back and fun, you know? I haven’t seen these guys live yet but the guys at You Ain’t No Picasso didn’t seem too impressed.

CYHSY’s first album (self-titled) was released in 2005 and has since been followed by Some Loud Thunder in 2007. Favorite songs include the first single from Some Loud Thunder, “The Skin Of My Yellow Country Teeth”, and from Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, try “Upon This Tidal Wave Of Young Blood,” “Heavy Metal,” and “Gimme Some Salt.”

If you like CYHSY, try: Cold War Kids, Architecture In Helsinki, Takka Takka, and Wolf Parade.

• Clap Your Hands Say Yeah’s Website

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