Fitz and the Tantrums
More Than Just a Dream
(Elektra Records)

Do you remember when The Killers’ Hot Fuss came out and what a big deal it was? Well, if you don’t, rest assured that I do. This sort of ’80s-influenced, neo-soul power pop is catchy as hell. Add in the dual vocals of Michael Fitzpatrick and Noelle Scaggs, and you have an intoxicating summer record.

From the whistling on “The Walker” to the clapping and enthusiastic “ooh’s” on “Out of My League,” it’s clear that much of the power of More Than Just a Dream comes from the atmosphere and energy of the band’s sound rather than the lyrics. “Break the Walls” certainly sounds epic, even if some of the images fall short, like turning down the lights in order to be blind.

“Don’t they know this speaker is about to explode?/Don’t they know this building is about to blow?” Fitzpatrick asks on “Spark,” a song that serves as something of a manifesto of confidence. With this kind of brash boasting, how can you not be drawn in? This is the sort of music that’s just plain fun. Likewise, “Get Away” has a brilliant call-and-response bit that would translate well live.

If you want to dance or just listen to an album with a lot of spirit, you could do far worse than More Than Just a Dream. It might not change the world, but it certainly makes it more fun, and we need bands like Fitz and the Tantrums.