When I get a CD to review that boasts about "razor-sharp synth-pop pulsating with dance beats", I know that this probably won't appeal to a large portion of the Sea Of Tranquility audience. But that is too bad. Hovering between Modest Mouse and Tragically Hip, Mellowdrone has provided us a CD that keeps grabbing your attention. Box has instant appeal with it's grooves and rhythms, but it is with multiple listens that you hear all of the changes that occur within the songs. This is not progressive rock by any means, but is far more adventurous than most pop being released today.
"Four Leaf Clover" and "Fuck It Man" are two songs that really stick out for me, but most people will be drawn to the infectious songs "Beautiful Day" and "Fashionably Uninvited". "And Repeat" has a strong Franz Ferdinand appeal to it, where "And Repeat" reminds me of Freddy Johnstone.
If you like to mix it up and listen to some accessible music from time to time, Box is a good place to start. Recommended for fans of early Replacements and early The Smiths, but also for those that have gotten into more recent bands that rely so heavily on the bass guitar like Modest Mouse. This is just plain fun with a decent beat. Every now and then you have to listen outside your normal Box
Track Listing
1. c'mon try a little bit
2. oh my
3. four leaf clover
4. fashionably uninvited5.beautiful day
6. fuck it man
7. whatever the deal
8. madison
9. and repeat
10. orange marmalade
11. amazing
12. bone marrow
13. limb to limb