Poppy Robbie crafts lyrically rich Power Pop reminiscent of the likes of Elvis Costello and Joe Jackson, continuing a tradition they established. Within the album ‘Neighborhood Beautification Commission,’ a track named ‘Robert Pollard Trading Card Collection’ explicitly nods to the influence of Guided by Voices in shaping this collection of twelve superb songs. These tracks are irresistibly catchy, inviting repeated listens as they weave stories that compel me to sing along with their infectious choruses.

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Be sure to catch ‘Homesteader’ featured on the ‘The Best Power Pop of 2023‘ Spotify playlist.

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Could you share the journey of bringing this record to life? How did all the pieces come together to create the final product?

Initially, this project began as an idea for a short EP containing about 5 or 6 songs I’d been holding onto for some time. Some of these tracks even date back to the mid-2000s. Over the years, while working on various things, I sensed a common narrative thread among some songs. I aimed to eventually release them as a cohesive group.

Later in the year, circumstances started aligning, allowing me to dive into the envisioned project. As I began recording, I decided to expand it into a full-length album. A few additional songs seemed to fit the narrative, and a couple of new ones even emerged.

Defining a song’s completion can be elusive. How do you determine when a composition has reached its final, ready-to-record form?

For me, it boils down to whether I’ve conveyed everything I intended. Does the message come across by the song’s end? As someone who focuses heavily on lyrics, I prioritize connecting with the words. During recording, I discovered that some songs, which I thought were finalized, shifted notably. It was a surprising experience to let go of preconceived notions, ultimately leading to a better outcome. If something doesn’t work during recording, it might be worth trying a different approach.

How would you describe the evolution of your sound in this new album compared to your previous works? Were there intentional shifts in style or themes?

In 2019, I self-released an EP called ‘The Troubled Times of Samuel Heck,’ a raw, lo-fi collection somewhat akin to what I initially envisioned for this project. However, for this album, I sought more freedom to explore diverse sounds without being confined to a specific label or style. These songs have resided within me for quite a while, making this material particularly resonant for me. The album comprises songs from different phases of my life, offering varied perspectives within the same headspace, akin to a neighborhood. It reflects the contradictions and growth we experience in life, a narrative I found intriguing to explore.

As an artist, the act of baring your emotions to the world is profound. Does this vulnerability come naturally to you, or is it a constant journey of finding comfort?

It’s a bit of both. Expressing oneself is a form of free therapy. I strive for direct and honest writing, regardless of the subject’s significance. Balancing being true to oneself while keeping the content engaging for others is the challenge. Listeners these days can easily skip tracks, so the music must captivate.

In the digital age, visual elements are intertwined with music. How did you approach the album’s visual aesthetics, such as album art and accompanying visuals? How do they complement the sonic experience you’ve crafted?

Early on, I had a clear vision for the album cover, incorporating scattered green Monopoly houses. I expanded this aesthetic to the album’s inside art, evoking an American suburban theme – plastic daisies, pink flamingos, and synthetic grass doormats. They reflect an almost-real, manufactured suburban bliss.

Looking ahead to the next couple of months, what exciting plans or projects are on the horizon for you?

I’m hoping for a label to press this album on vinyl! For now, after its recent release, I’m enjoying the responses and feedback. These songs have lingered in my mind for too long; it’s time they found a place outside my head.