I was lucky enough to be present for this show. Beer was packed at the front of the stage from the still too high snow banks outside – and the mood inside was positively captivated – something this video, and the upcoming video series encapsulate wonderfully.
—
Visions of the Unexcused
The album rips right out of the gate with “Careers in Science” and a burning guitar riff firing over acoustic guitar. Next comes the anthemic “Where Things Go to Fade” with distorted guitars taking JUST the right breaks at just the right times. This is an example of well thought out arrangements played by a band that is tight as hell. The album continues from there with masterfully crafted indie rock tunes with just enough catchiness to have you hooked in tight but never veering into predictability. The highlight for me is “Dark Academy” about the impact of a local arcade on a youth looking for excitement and acceptance in the pre-internet age. If you are old enough to remember those times you’ll dig the hell out of this tune. I know I did. So I invite you to join me in listening to this awesome album. It’s name your price on bandcamp here but I would advise throwing them a few bucks. These guys don’t get nearly the recognition they deserve and I like to believe in a different time and place you’d be reading about them in Rolling Stone……and in that different time and place Rolling Stone is still cool and relevant.
—
Nine Bullets
Boston indie stalwarts, The Longwalls, have released a fine live album, recorded at their March performance at Boston club, The Bridge. The ten tracks are culled from the bands extensive catalog and showcase the band's immense depth and originality. Live albums are, at best, difficult affairs that try to recreate the precision of recorded tracks, coupled with the spontaneity and energy of a live performance. This album does this with aplomb, transporting the listener to the front row of a great experience.
—
Floorshime Zipper Boots