Pop group Fun. releases second album ‘Some Nights’

The simplicity of the band's name explains them all too perfectly. New York-based indie pop band Fun. has returned with the release of their sophomoric effort, "Some Nights."

As their first release under the Fueled by Ramen label, the infectious and buoyant ensemble led by Nate Ruess, former lead vocalist of indie group The Format, has outshined himself on "Some Nights", with a slew of multi-instrumental pop ballads, rebellion and his trademark unmistakable high-pitched vocals.

The trio worked alongside Kanye West's co-producer Jeff Bhasker when mixing and creating the base sound of the album, stating they wanted to tie in hip hop influences that were heavily inspired by West and other contemporary urban artists.

The group has managed to utilize unique bass beats and merge them perfectly into their staple joyful pop sounds.

Landing a spot in a Chevy car commercial whose Super Bowl premiere shot the album's first single, "We Are Young" featuring Janelle Monae, to the top of the iTunes charts, but left many longtime fans of The Format and fun. skeptical of Ruess' unusual decision to commercialize on such a large scale through a major label.

However, the undeniably catchy premiere hit, sure to be stuck in your subconscious and leave you singing for days, is only a small taste of what this album has to offer.

What Fun.'s initial release "Aim and Ignite" failed to fully pull together, "Some Nights" solidifies in a seamless flow of power pop eminence that provides the potential for an album full of singles.

The transitions from near full-on optimistic hip hop to piano heavy recovery ballads may seem unfit, but somehow compliment each other in a way most other bands of its kind have yet to establish.

According to Ruess, the album is intended to be the spastic compilation that it is, as it is showcasing how moods and personalities can change each night.

The albums' opening line, "Some nights I stay up cashing in my bad luck" immediately gives chills with its shouting, anthem-like elation.

The second track "It Gets Better" then offers a strong sleigh bells sound with heart thumping bass and diverse use of instruments.

Even the softer, piano-friendly "Carry On" remains beat-heavy and creates beautiful harmony, offering uplifting lyrics about picking up the pieces of a shattered situation without being overly sensitive and leaving a feeling of tranquility.

One of the true charms of the album is "All Alone," which takes distinguishing drumbeats and a mix of crafted electronic sounds that generate a nearly perfect pop song, feeding effortlessly into the next track, "All Alright."

Expected to see much success in 2012, not only can the band be seen on the newest season of Fox's musical hit "Glee," but "Some Nights" has made its place as the prize of the fun. collection, and undoubtedly one of Ruess' best productions to date.

"Some Nights" is available in stores now, or on iTunes for just $8.99