If someone asks about Phantom Planet, there are three typical responses: it’s the band with Jason Schwartzman (of “Rushmore” fame) in it, or it is a popular 1960s sci-fi movie, or, more commonly, it is the band that created that absurdly catchy “California” song that started as the theme song for the show “90210” — I mean “The OC” — and ended up transforming into the theme song for all things trendy. Since Schwartzman’s departure a couple of years ago, the latter is the only statement that holds true.
Those unfamiliar with Phantom Planet may be surprised to find they have recorded a lot more than their popular ballad; they have been critics’ favorites since they released their debut album in 1997. At that time they were all still teenagers, all from upper-class Los Angeles up-bringings and all in the process of dropping out of college to pursue some rock ’n’roll.
With influences like the Beatles (who doesn’t list them as an influence?), Elvis Costello and Radiohead (ditto), Phantom Planet never dove into the hard stuff, settling on pop rock and sticking with it.
They are not exactly a rocker’s dream choice; those that will be counting the number of times Luda refers to his “bitches” or his “Cadillacs” may be disappointed with Phantom Planet’s embraced experimentation with pop. They don’t hide that fact. Take the punk out of Weezer or the garage out of the Strokes and you may be nearing Phantom Planet’s unapologetically sunny version of rock ’n’ roll that was most noticeable on their second album, The Guest, but has stuck with them throughout the years. In their defense, Phantom Planet still have a unique sound, and they aren’t afraid to try new things. With their self-titled third album, they have flirted with a harder sound. Their new single, “Big Brat,” sounds like a dang good impression of the Strokes.
Moshing may at times be replaced by singing along, but don’t complain too much since, come May 13, there’s a good chance you’ll be singing, “We’ve been on the run, driving in the sun, looking out for number one” with the rest of the crowd.
