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by alex maiolo_Archive
I think they are great. The first few records were OK, but didn't do much for me - pleasant enough, which I suppose is like saying "she's pretty in the face" or "has a great personality."
Then they put out Oui and One Bedroom, which are complimentary records. Personally, I think these two albums combine to make one excellent one, but one their own, they are pretty damn good. I like how both of these records have two opening songs that make a sort of mini suite. I like to hear both songs if I'm hearing one.
Archer's stuff is alright. Sam's is OK. I can't stand Shrimp Boat.
The "super group" element of this band works for me. The sum of the parts, etc.
As stated, the secret weapon in this band is Eric Claridge.
Not enough can be said about John's drumming. One of many Chicago Human Rhythm Machines.
I like that they bring a keyboard player with them on the road, and that they keep it compact. All of the analog gear is great in the studio, but a pain in the ass on the road. Reason+Controller+Stylophone and they sound perfect.
When you try to make indie rock for adults, you risk getting egg on your face. I think they've pulled it off. I enjoy having them on when I'm driving, having a party, or cooking dinner. On the rare ocassion that they come to town (hint hint) my older rock geek pals and I usually get dinner first, and treat the night the way 50 year olds do when they go see Rod Stewart or someone. Dates, wives, drinks afterwards - all that.
So far I like the new record. I think they may have peaked with the two records I mentioned. They refined their "sound," like it or hate it, on those. There has been a slight departure on this new one, but they would have to do something more drastic in the future to shake things up.
I always thought it would be fun to play in that band. They should be proud of what the've done, and the "image" they have.
It's hard to articulate, but some bands, GvsB, for example, get tagged with an image - "sexy hunky style guys" in their case.
For S&C, I think Simmo hit the nail on the head when he used the term "gentlemen," or I might use a word like "class."
Simmo - cool you got to play with them. I'd like to hear some of your stuff.
Mayfair - I had no idea you played keys with them. Are you Max? If so, we met in Chapel Hill.
-A
Itchy McGoo wrote:I would like to be a "shoop-shoop" girl in whatever band Alex Maiolo is in.
