Hinting strongly of Sarah Records and the twee movement, Charlie Big Time can easily be likened to everyone from greats like The Field Mice and Lovejoy, to more modern artists like Palomar and Tender Trap. And, of course, the king of all twee-based influences: The Smiths. There is no denying the influence of The Smiths here, both the songwriting and vocal styling have Moz written all over “Love Is A Franchise”.

In fact, all songs on The Tall Storeys Of… have hints of The Smiths. There is also a fair amount of jangle in “Charlie Big Time” and the group plays off Keith Girdler’s like of the 12-string guitar in “Lipstick And Bravado”. Perhaps their greatest feat is “Giving In, Giving Out, Giving Up” not entirely due to the dual harmony male/female chorus, but it sure helps.

These are the bountiful themes of The Tall Storeys Of…; Charlie Big Time has succeeded in creating a wonderful little twee-pop gem.

Charlie Big Time: Charlie Big Time [mp3]

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Charlie Big Time: Giving In, Giving Out, Giving Up [mp3]

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Series II Records [CD, 2008]

1. Something’s Happening, Somewhere
2. Co-Stars In A Freak Show
3. Goodnight Irene
4. Second Hand Dealing
5. Charlie Big Time
6. Lipstick And Bravado
7. Love Is A Franchise
8. Giving In, Giving Out, Giving Up
9. Fred Astaire
10. Soul Glad
11. The Good Ship Faithless