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MD Web Log Archives
My Latest Obsessions
2007-10-02 MD managing editor Adam B back at you with another weekly installment of my latest favest listening. Right now, leaping gloriously from my iMac is Hello, Avalanche by The Octopus Project. This mostly vocal-free album strikes a perfect balance between indie-rock quirkiness and heavy alt-rock bluster. After the quiet lullaby of "Snow Tip Cap Mountain," we're hauled headlong into "Truck," which drummer TOTO MIRANDA absolutely plows through with a wailing upbeat hi-hat smash and, at about 1:10, a HUGELY energizing snare/cymbal fill. The rest of the album, which might remind you of something by Trans Am or Tortoise, is equally playful and exciting. Fresh, clean, and damned good for you.
 Two other albums that strike a similar balance between odd and creative indie pop and big 'n' bruising alt-rock are the latest by Portugal. The Man and Mice Parade. That period in the middle of PTM's name is intentional, no doubt irking editors far and wide. I'll cut the band a break, though, because their latest, Church Mouth, is absolutely killing. All itchy rhythms, doubled singsong vocals, booming drums, and needles pinned into the red, Church Mouth is equally smart and soulful. Drummer JASON SECHRIST lends a slamming touch and just enough rhythmic tweaking to keep you on your toes. I've got a feeling these guys are great live–if you happen to see them, let me know.
 Meanwhile, Mice Parade, effectively drummer ADAM PIERCE aided by some heavy alt-rock friends, has produced its seventh album of brawny-but-bookish sounds. In fact, I think that's drummer DOUG SCHARIN on opening track "Sneaky Red." If so, Attaboy, Doug! It's the first pop song in a long time I've continually rewound over and over due almost entirely to the massive drum performance. But ultimately it's Pierce's heartfelt tunes that'll draw you in for the long haul. And when he himself is responsible for the big beats, it ain't no small thing neither. Fans of Pinback and The Go-Betweens should appreciate this one.
See you next time!
AB
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