I have a problem at the moment and it’s in knowing how to feel about talented, goofy indie artists making heartfelt, silly tunes. Jerry Paper knows what good music and good comedy are—they often make both and many of the hooks and themes on ‘Free Time’’s singles are bitingly pleasing. But if brevity is the soul of wit, elongation is its asshole and this record’s strengths are drawn-out to tedious effect. When the instrumentals aren’t confused, they are betrayed by consistently underplayed vocals. I feel solemn for criticising this fun record and that is certainly its, not my, victory. I may love it three months down the line.
18/30
A favourite: ‘Duuumb’
‘Free Time’ is out now via Stones Throw Records
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