Caution Warning Danger

Remember that song in American Pie when the gang’s getting ready for the prom? That was “Flagpole Sitta” by Harvey Danger. In the time it took to produce and release two more American Pies, Danger released one album, King James Version, which flopped, and the band disappeared. Now after five years of remaining incognito, the quartet has released their third album, a two disc set entitled Little By Little.Thoughtfully titled, Little By Little shows the steps toward improvement the band has taken, while securing the sound that famed them. “Cream and Bastards Rise” clenches the amped, upbeat sounds and witty lyrical delivery. A reach in the other direction includes tracks like “Happiness Writes White” and “Little Round Mirrors” featuring keyboards and more thoughtful lyrics emulating the abandoned sounds of Ben Folds Five. The heartfelt “Little Round Mirrors” recites “You can find someone who will love you as much/ As you love all your little round mirrors” with perfect delivery.

With the bulk of musical sincerity on the first disc, disc two includes random cuts from working in the studio, including the reprise and writing of “Cream and Bastards Rise,” and a wretched attempt at Fur Elise on the piano. Think of it as the director’s cut; it’s cool if you’re into that sort of thing. An additional four full-length tracks are included on the second record with good reason. They barely compare to those laid on the primary.

Little By Little is a nice departure from the 1997 induction of Harvey Danger to the musical world. An expeditious follow-up ideally supported by a label that cares will likely place Danger back in the forefront.