"Love This Time" is a little too 1980s-throwback, with way-too-bouncy pop songs backed with zingy synths. Some of the synth-less instrumentals are almost pretty, but Dave Gowans' vocals -- which often border on the spoken-word -- are too serious, too toneless, and too melodramatic. He sounds best when accompanied by one of the album's guest female vocalists, such as fellow Mint artist Carolyn Mark, who joins him on "Lonely Hearts." Although they never quite harmonize, her sweet tone balances out his overzealousness.
Those who adore jangly, overeager pop songs may find a home for this record, but it's a little too tedious for my liking.
