Light and airy with a bounce of soft textures is what you'll get with Quips latest CD, Take Two (Translation Loss Records). Part Tom Waits, part Sgt. Pepper's era Beatles and part noisy themed Queens Of The Stone Age, comes this Philly band with a firm grasp on crafty songwriting. With Indie Rock fueled riffs and pot mixed vocal melodies, Quips remind me instantly of the soulful and quirkiness of a Soul Asylum.
The 10 track, Take Two is the 2nd release from the quartet and it finds their songwriting tighter and more ambitious. Singer/guitarist Michael Prout delivers his vocals with a delicate passion that easily comes across as vulnerable and reflective, while guitar/piano/vocalist/percussion play Grant Hughes throws down some cool dirty '70's themed riffs, rhythm section Robert Pagnotta (Bass & Vocals) and drummer Morgan Tindall hold down the fort.
The songwriting and exploration is what sets Quips apart from a bunch of their contemporaries. That Beatle-esqe "Strawberry Fields" aloofness is ever present on Take Two, giving them that traditional Stoner Rock feel. Songs like "Lady Powerline" and "Coming Down" provide that crunchy stoner vibe and texture, while CD closer, "Me and My" offer the more subtle and quieter side.
Quips serve up an oddly interesting mix of Indie Pop with old school Stoner Rock to create a very intriguing and captivating record. The songwriting chops thoughout Take Two is undeniable and down right infectious. A very solid and surprising release.
Track Listing
- Calm Me Down
- Coming Along
- Laray
- Lady Powerline
- When Are We Going Home?
- Alexander Hamilton
- Over The Top
- Cover Your Tracks
- Strange Man
- Me and My
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