Description:
At first listen, the Ladybug Transistor resemble the better-crafted Britpop groups of the 1980s. Gary Olson's deep, carefully enunciated vocals bring to mind Echo & the Bunnymen and Lowlife-era New Order, especially on "Echoes" and "Wooden Bars," tracks from Argyle Heir, the Ladybug Transistor's fourth release. But a closer focus unveils a deeper surprise--gentle hook-laden pop songs augmented by perfectly placed layers of woodwinds and brass. "Nico Norte" could easily be an updated outtake from the Mamas and the Papas' Deliver album, while "Brighton Bound" features harmonies t
At first listen, the Ladybug Transistor resemble the better-crafted Britpop groups of the 1980s. Gary Olson's deep, carefully enunciated vocals bring to mind Echo & the Bunnymen and Lowlife-era New Order, especially on "Echoes" and "Wooden Bars," tracks from Argyle Heir, the Ladybug Transistor's fourth release. But a closer focus unveils a deeper surprise--gentle hook-laden pop songs augmented by perfectly placed layers of woodwinds and brass. "Nico Norte" could easily be an updated outtake from the Mamas and the Papas' Deliver album, while "Brighton Bound" features harmonies that would make a barbershop quartet proud. Only the faux-renaissance "Catherine Elizabeth" seems out of place, but even that delicate tapestry of a tune works on repeated listens. Argyle Heir? The Ladybug Transistor? What do they mean? It doesn't really matter. The Brooklyn-based sextet, Anglophiles every one, have cornered the market on breezy, well-orchestrated arrangements. Fans of melodic and meticulously arranged pop suites--à la the Elephant Six style of indie rock--will embrace this latest addition to the genre. --Andria Lisle
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Manufacturer: Merge Records
Release date: 22 May 2001
EAN: 0036172948925 UPC: 036172948925
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