Well, seeing as we already have Pop philosophy, it makes sense to see some Philosophy Pop. At least, that’s what a quaint, punny reference to controversial French thinker Jacques Derrida in your band’s name – along with a huggably academic album title – seem to announce. Thankfully, the album’s shiny, playful interiors dispel any kind of cynicism regarding the waving of flags and eagerly raised hands in the lecture hall. Cherilyn MacNeil’s bright, companionable voice guides us through a friendly menagerie of songs concocted around imaginary animals, with lyrical and melodic free associations bounced off their cartoony hides. Welcome echoes of Sufjan Stevens’ heroic preciousness and chirpy, rhythmic optimism are flecked through ‘Idealistic Animals’ instrumentation, but Dear Reader seem exactly aware of their sound, and where they want it to take us. Lazily hip-wagging, smiley stuff.
