Cute Is What We Aim For

The Same Old Blood Rush with a New Touch, the debut from Buffalo-based quartet Cute Is What We Aim For, is basically a product of the MySpace generation where hip self-assurance can lead to a record deal and a devoted fan base. And in the capable hands of producer Matt Squire (Northstar, Panic! at the Disco), bands like CIWWAF can be assured a polished album with catchy hooks and sweet melodies. One questions whether the band merely enjoys attempting cheeky doses of sarcasm or truly finds itself charming with lines like "I've got the gift of one liners/And you've got the curse of curves/And with this gift I compose words...are you perspiring from the irony or sweatin' to these lyrics?" CIWWAF also string along sentiments that often poke fun at their own existence and superficiality ("I spend more time in front of mirrors than any gent should/Because let's face it/One on one is more fun anyway"), and sharp scenester insight seems to be the point in the first place. [This Japanese edition of The Same Old Blood Rush with a New Touch includes a bonus track.] ~ Corey Apar, All Music Guide