Dan Mangan — Nice, Nice, Very Nice

Dan Mangan sees the world differently. As if this wasn't evident enough on 2007's Postcards And Daydreaming and this year's teaser Roboteering EP, he shines a new light on his melancholic observations from traveling and growing up in Vancouver with 12 new tracks of genuine beauty. Nice, Nice Very Nice captures the best of Mangan's indie folk, from his satirical wit in the poppy "Sold" to the unconventional source of inspiration (bus shelters) in "Tina's Glorious Comeback." Pretty guitars, pianos and violins are complimented by an army of indie guests including Justin Rutledge, Veda Hille, Mark Berube and members of Elliott Brood, Said The Whale, Mother Mother, Major Maker and Small Sins. The beauty of this is Mangan doesn't need the indie cred for this record to shine. While the guests are subtle enhancers, Mangan's talent speaks for itself. His writing is alluring and pure, and includes well-thought out lines packaged with soothing vocals. The sound is seamless thanks to producer John Critchley (Elliott Brood, Holy Fuck, Hidden Cameras) and the songs are tight. He's an observer in the sense you'd want to join him on a patio for a drink just to see the city through his eyes for an afternoon. Until then, Nice, Nice, Very Nice effectively lets you pretend for just over 40 mesmerizing minutes.