On and off the record
By Michel Cicero 03/26/2009
MR. HIGHWAY
Mr Highway
This record provides further evidence that there is exceptional music being created under the radar in Ventura County. Sometimes dissonant, other times dreamily melodic, occasionally bombastic and appropriately loud, Mr. Highway takes post-Rubber Soul-era Beatles, puts it through the wash a couple times with extra soap and never cleans the lint trap. That is to say they like their fuzz. Not every song is like this, but it’s my most lasting impression following a handful of listens. That said, there is enough texture and complexity juxtaposed with utter simplicity — not to mention thoughtful, literary lyrics — to keep the listener’s imagination churning and body swaying. All Mr Highway’s song titles have sub heads, just one more detail that sets them apart. The duo rarely plays live — let’s change this.
Available at www.myspace.com/coldvomit.
We Govern We
Origami Lesson One
Recently imported from Greece, We Govern We is currently making a splash on the local nightclub circuit. Vocal-driven techno-pop that straddles music, eras with a freshly powdered 80s groove, their radio-friendly songs are destined for airplay. Lead singer Anna Karakalou compares to a less affected Gwen Stefani, but with the range and sex appeal of Dale Bozzio (Missing Persons). The first track is arguably the best: a brilliant discotheque treatment of Edgar Allen Poe’s poem “Annabel Lee,” followed by the buoyant “Cotton Candy” which is sure to make some chart somewhere and soon. Much of the rest of the record is ballady but not cloying. Karakalou trades vocals on a couple of tracks with an undisclosed male from the group who does a good job of counterbalancing her exuberance. This is a device that has a tendency to back fire, but it works for We Govern We.
Available at www.myspace.com/wegovernwe.
The Last Priority
Amerika’s Hijacked
A newer horse in the nardcore stable, the Last Priority epitomizes California hardcore: fast, loud, repetitive and anthemic when you can understand the lyrics. They sing about many of the same subjects their predecessors did: corrupt government, misuse of authority and racism/hate. Much of the last decade has provided excellent lyrical opportunity for the hardcore set as the ’80s did for Youth Brigade and Agression. It’s a time honored tradition among angry youth and they do it justice. There’s not a whole lot to say about hardcore except if you’re young it should both fuel and burn your rage, and if you’re a geezer — punk or otherwise — it should make you want to take a nap. The Last Priority passes the Litmus test.
Available at www.interpunk.com
DIGG | del.icio.us | REDDIT