Album Review: Picos Pot Pourri by De 2 Pico's – A Retro Dutch Pop Gem
If you’re a fan of classic pop with a touch of nostalgia, Picos Pot Pourri by De 2 Pico's might just hit the sweet spot. Released under MFP Holland, this Dutch album is a delightful mix of genres and vibes that feel like flipping through an old photo album. It’s not groundbreaking, but it’s got charm—and sometimes, that’s all you need.
The album dives into various styles, from foxtrots to tangos, waltzes, and quicksteps. While there are plenty of tracks to choose from, two stood out for me in particular: “Bye-Bye Blackbird” (from the Foxtrot section) and “Smile, Smile, Smile” (in the Quick Step segment). Let me tell ya why these stuck in my head.
“Bye-Bye Blackbird” feels like stepping into a smoky jazz club somewhere in the ‘50s—except it’s filtered through a quirky, distinctly Dutch lens. The melody has this bittersweet vibe, like saying goodbye to something you don’t really wanna leave behind. There’s a simplicity to the arrangement that works wonders; it doesn’t try too hard, which makes it oddly memorable. You find yourself humming along without even realizing it.
Then there’s “Smile, Smile, Smile.” Man, this one’s a mood booster. It’s upbeat, playful, and kinda cheeky—the kind of tune that could easily get stuck in your head while doing chores or driving around town. What I love about it is how unapologetically happy it feels. In a world full of overproduced beats and moody lyrics, this track reminds you that music can just be fun sometimes. No deep metaphors here, just pure joy wrapped up in a catchy rhythm.
One thing worth noting is how seamless the transitions between genres feel. Sure, some tracks lean more traditional than others, but overall, the album flows nicely. Whether you’re into waltzes like “La Spagnola” or the peppy energy of “Colonel Bogey Mars,” there’s variety to keep things interesting. Plus, hearing snippets of Dutch culture woven into songs like “Breng Eens Een Zonnetje Onder De Mensen” adds a unique local flavor.
At its core, Picos Pot Pourri isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel. Instead, it celebrates timeless melodies and danceable rhythms—a throwback to simpler times. Listening to it feels like chatting with an old friend who tells funny stories but occasionally repeats themselves. Not every track will blow your mind, but the ones that do resonate stick with you long after the record stops spinning.
So, who should give this a listen? If you dig vintage pop or enjoy exploring international sounds, this is right up your alley. And honestly, if you’re looking for background music for a cozy dinner party, this album’s got you covered.
Here’s the kicker though—listening to Picos Pot Pourri made me realize how much we crave authenticity in music today. These tracks may not have fancy production tricks, but they’ve got heart. Maybe that’s what makes them so endearing. Or maybe I’m just a sucker for anything with a good whistle-worthy hook. Either way, De 2 Pico's nailed it.
