On Talking Through Tin Cans, The Morning Benders make well-crafted pop songs that are both simple and sophisticated. The Californians shine on “Waiting For a War,” with its jaunty beat and old timey piano. Joe Ferrell’s guitar seems to perfectly mimic Chris Chu’s voice note for note on “Loose Change.” When the band chooses to mellow out (“Heavy Hearts” being an exception), they lose some of their playfulness and become much less interesting. It is their upbeat numbers, like the short but sweet “Damnit Anna,” that will keep people engaged.

- Shannon Carlin