[3/5] Let's be frank: The brand of sensitive-man piano-pop Matt Hales creates under the name Aqualung makes Coldplay sound like Slayer. And this trademark sound hasn't really changed on Memory Man, Aqualung's first studio album given a proper U.S. release. But whereas past releases felt like one giant NyQuil overdose, Man benefits from plenty of lively flourishes and Hales' keen ability to craft memorable choruses. Despite trite sentiments such as "I'll be your respirator," Man's leadoff single, "Pressure Suit," is tailor-made for Grey's Anatomy with U2-styled riffs sweeping down like a seagull atop brittle beats and simple but affecting piano. "Glimmer" bears an eerie resemblance to Jeff Buckley-from the calming strings all the way down to Hales' nimble falsetto-and the Motown-reminiscent "Rolls So Deep" is positively brisk, with twinkling percussion and guitars exploding like a vibrant sunrise. Sure, Man is still hopelessly (and sometimes cloyingly) sentimental-but this time around, Aqualung's sweetness is surprisingly easy to swallow. (COLUMBIA) Annie Zaleski
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