Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Originating from Vancouver in Canada, Hokus Pick have been together for eight years now and the release of 'Snappy' marks a fresh beginning as they have signed to a new label and overcome a period of two years where their visibility has been reduced by not having product on the shelves. This happy snappy optimistic hope filled album deserves to break the band wide open. Their melodic pop rock is here underpinned by tinges of ska and some fun songs but don't be fooled by all those sing along choruses. Beneath the veneer of fun which is a big part of the band's persona, there is something deeper happening. The up tempo ska of "Our God" sees two friends meeting at a high school reunion reflecting on the journey life has taken them on and how in very different ways faith has impacted them. The song which has been gaining all the attention so far has been the chirpy "I'm So Happy" with its infectious chorus - a perfect summer single. Yet for all the chipper attitudes and fun, it's the intense "Let Go Let God" that is a stunningly simple example of a song that can hit home and map out the struggles of surrendering to God. The album closes with "Sliver", a moody piece of alternative rock with a provocative metaphor for the grace of God. And then it's over, but it isn't! A hidden track reveals a special 15 minute "radio play" "Appointment With Stupidity" recorded at 4.00am and featuring the worst Scottish accent on a CD anywhere! Totally mad!

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