AMG Review of Why I Write Such Good Songs

Francis Arres
All Music Guide

Graham Smith, aka Kleenex Girl Wonder, issues another fun, melodic record. Everything on Why I Write Such Good Songs seems to have inspiration behind it; these are true love songs. The EP is cleaner than Smith's first release, Ponyoak, but jumps from very produced to lo-fi. The songs are in the indie pop vein, with a soulful '60s feel, perhaps like Apples in Stereo. Driving rhythms of the drums and guitars push the songs along and make them very danceable, while layers of acoustic and distorted guitars provide a bed for the vocals (there are many harmonies of the same voice). The first and longest song on the EP is "Why I Write Such Good Songs." Smith reveals that his perspective on his songwriting ability is not sarcastic, but sparked into a flame because his love interest is his muse. "Miller's Tale" is the only song that is lacking, but does not distract your attention on this 17-minute EP. All of the tracks on Why I Write Such Good Songs are sincere, witty singalongs, especially in the choruses, with tongue-in-cheek metaphors and similes attached.