Eve's Plum

New York's Eve's Plum switched producers for Cherry Alive, the band's second release following 1993's Envy. With Fred Maher at the helm, the group displays solid growth from the potential hinted at on their debut. Their focus is once again on melodic power pop in the vein of Matthew Sweet, but there seems to be more focus and stronger material. Their development is apparent from the outset with the playful tone and wry lyrics of the opening track "Jesus Loves You (Not as Much as I Do)." The stick-in-your head choruses and groove-oriented melodies don't stop there. "Wishing the Day Away" has a laid-back feel that complements the lyrics. "Loved by You" expresses the desire to be loved in a giddy, dreamy fashion over a thick, infectious guitar line. Meanwhile, they sweeten things up a bit with lovely backing vocals on the singalong "Fairy Princess." Eve's Plum upped the ante on a fine follow-up record with Cherry Alive. ~ Tom Demalon, All Music Guide