LINKS Etc. NEWS NEWS copyright Dennis Diken 2009 next previous By CARL CORTEZ, Contributing Editor Grade: B+ Dennis Diken may be best known as the drummer of The Smithereens, but he’s released an incredibly cool retro album called LATE MUSIC under the moniker Dennis Diken with Bell Sound. Diken teamed up with musician Pete DiBella to co-write 13 tracks that mix some Smithereens rock, ‘60s style Beach Boys vocal harmonies and pure unadulterated power pop. LATE MUSIC is an album out of time, and it’s incredible to listen to what Diken and DiBella have put together with a wonderful textured layer of guitars and synths. From the opening onslaught of the Smithereens-esque “The Sun’s Gonna Shine in the Morning,” the album settles into its own easy-going groove. “No One’s Listening” uses Diken’s falsetto vocals to good use, while “I’ve Been Away” is one of my favorite tracks on the disc, mixing in some great guitar work with a catchy chorus. While "The Bad Merry- Go-Round" has some nice jazz flourishes. While some of the songs really feel like a lost Brian Wilson/Beach Boys gems (and I mean that in a good way), it’s the rock numbers that really stand out, including the groovy little “Let Your Loved One Sleep" and the albums other sleep song "Don't Let Me Sleep Too Long." Few albums nowadays really catch your attention on their first listen and remind you what it takes to be actual musicians (and not computer junkies fine-tuning everything into auto-tune mush). LATE MUSIC is an album made by talented guys striving for greatness. It’s one of the freshest sounding releases all year and it’s incredible to hear Diken come from behind the drum kit and really showcase what he has to offer as a singer-songwriter. I can’t wait to hear what his follow-up is going to be like, because if this is any indication, Diken has jump-started a whole other side-business for himself when he’s not keeping time for the Smithereens.