Review: Backseat Goodbye - Dressed Up Like Dreams

“Dressed Up Like Dreams” Review

When I saw on Tumblr that Backseat Goodbye was putting their new album, “Dressed Up Like Dreams”, up for free download on their site, I got really excited. I love Backseat Goodbye’s music, and I knew it would be a great article for V&J. I tried to get it written before the free download expired, but I was banned from the computer, and missed the deadline. Totally my bad. But, on the plus side, I’ve had more time to listen to his album. And it is the perfect album for summer.


Backseat Goodbye is Chad Sugg. He began making music as a college freshman in 2004. Since then, he has released eight singles and EP’s. His first full-length album, “Dressed Up Like Dreams” is the perfect album for listening to with your friends at the beach, in the car, around a bonfire, or whatever you’re doing during the summer. The songs are charming, acoustic, and oh so very singable. The simplicity of Chad’s lyrics are what really makes me really love this album. In “Technicolor Eyes” he sings “I like you / You like me / So let’s lock all the doors / There’s nothing outside we need to see / ‘Cause we’ve got love.” It’s cute little verses like that make this album so much fun. And believe me, it took forever for me to choose the verse to put there, because they’re all so great. His music is really emotional, but in a sweet way. When I’m listening to “Hey” I can’t not think about the boy that I like. Simple verses like “Feel free to hold my hand / Feel free to kiss me on the cheek / Even though I’d prefer the lips,” can make anyone smile.


Backseat Goodbye reminds me of a cross between two of my absolute favorite artists, Bright Eyes and Jason Mraz. Chad’s style of singing is a little more like melodic talking, much like Bright Eyes, but the acoustic guitar, and smile-invoking lyrics are very similar to Mraz. If you like Jason or Bright Eyes, I recommend you check out Backseat Goodbye. Even thought the album isn’t free anymore, it’s still up for grabs on iTunes! And trust me, it’s worth every penny. Whether you’re trying for a romance like I am, or just want some chill music to play and sing with friends – if you’ll excuse the Boys Like Girls reference – let “Dressed Up Like Dreams” be the soundtrack of your summer. And be sure to catch him on tour this summer with Breathe Electric, Mansions and October Nites!