Greg Kurstin Reel: A Pop Gem That Still Hits the Spot (Even If It’s From 2008)
Let’s get one thing straight—this isn’t your typical shiny, overproduced pop album. Nope. Greg Kurstin Reel by Various is more like that quirky friend who shows up uninvited but ends up being the life of the party. Released in 2008 under EMI Music Publishing, this little collection feels like a love letter to offbeat pop with just enough charm to make you hit repeat. And hey, it’s all thanks to Greg Kurstin, the wizard behind the boards, pulling strings like some musical puppet master.
Now, let me tell ya about two tracks that stuck in my brain like gum on a hot sidewalk: “Polite Dance Song” and “Fucking Boyfriend.”
First up, “Polite Dance Song.” Man, this track is wild. It’s got this weird mix of awkwardness and groove that shouldn’t work—but somehow does. The lyrics are kinda like overhearing someone nervously trying to ask you to dance at a middle school prom. Like, “Uh… do you wanna maybe move your feet? But only if you’re comfortable!” And yet, the beat sneaks up on you. Before you know it, you’re tapping your foot or bobbing your head like an idiot. I mean, how does he even pull that off? It’s catchy as hell without taking itself too seriously, which is rare these days.
Then there’s “Fucking Boyfriend.” Whoa, hold onto your socks because this one doesn’t mess around. The title alone grabs your attention faster than spilled coffee on white jeans. But don’t let the name fool ya—it’s not all rage and fury. There’s something oddly relatable about the whole vibe. Maybe it’s the way the melody bounces between sweet and sour, kinda like when you’re mad at someone but also sorta amused by their nonsense. By the time the chorus kicks in, you’re singing along like you’ve been holding onto this exact grudge for years.
The rest of the album keeps things interesting too. Tracks like “I Haven’t Got A Clue” and “Everything’s Just Wonderful” throw curveballs left and right, blending sarcasm with sincerity in ways that feel refreshingly human. You won’t find any cookie-cutter hits here—just a bunch of tunes that sound like they were made for fun rather than fame.
Looking back now, it’s kinda crazy to think this came out over a decade ago. In today’s world of TikTok-ready earworms and algorithm-approved playlists, Greg Kurstin Reel feels almost rebellious. It reminds me that music doesn’t always have to chase trends or fit neatly into boxes. Sometimes, it can just exist—to entertain, confuse, and surprise us.
So yeah, give this album a spin if you’re tired of the same old stuff. Just be warned—you might end up dancing politely or yelling about boyfriends before you realize what hit ya. Oh, and Greg? If you’re reading this, thanks for reminding us that pop music can still be weirdly wonderful.
