STYLE: Rock RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 6396-6250 LABEL: Sublime 8306103412 FORMAT: CD Album RELEASE DATE: 1998-03-20 RRP: £10.99
Reviewed by Trevor Kirk
An interesting debut from a California quartet who deliver mostly high-energy indie-rock, but who aren't afraid to mix in a few slower, more melodic numbers. The song lyrics aren't overtly Christian but deal with how we treat our fellow human beings in matters of relationships and attitudes, and how we come to terms with our own problems as a result. Although you need the lyric sheet to keep track of the words, the material is well written, well produced and well recorded, and highlights for me were the closing track "Superman Sun", that starts acoustic, builds to a climax and then closes with a single guitar phrase after a false ending (watch out, all radio jocks); "Stay Away", a song of rejection ("I'd better stay away just in case I invade on your perfect day.you wanted me out of your mind"); and "Let's Play Keep Away", a full-blooded rocker that explores much the same theme but offers this thought: "I cannot find out how you'll turn out next; if you change your ways, baby, that works best." The album repays the listener's efforts to get to the meanings behind the songs, and at the same time gives a typical slice of West Coast indie. Worth a look.
The opinions expressed in this article are
not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed
views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may
not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a
later date.
Interested in reviewing music? Find out
more here.