BANDS:

Punk & Ska
80's New Wave/
Post-Punk/
College Bands
90's & Beyond
Virginia, North
Carolina, & DC

The Atlantic Manor: Special Is Dead
[Do Too]

There are people out there who think for all of Tom Waits songwriting talents, the man has no business singing in a karaoke bar, no less his own songs.  These people may want to steer clear of The Atlantic Manor.  R. Sells latest effort, while certainly an intoxicating affair, features a voice that can at once sound so right while sounding so wrong.  Musically, the nine songs here should spark less debate, as each is a wonderfully understated lo-fi offering.

Though one could argue the songs are underwritten and lines forced Sell is deft at painting a bleak picture, and more often than not theres potency in his sparse language (Flying Horse Carousel seems to be about a recurring theme in his relationships).  Theres a mood/groove to this record and a quiet confidence that might have some thinking of Elliott Smiths Either/Or, or even David Grays White Ladder, even if it is less accessible.  Classical World, Hideaway and Into the Black mark a fine trio on an album that is striking from start to finish.

This album can be purchased at CD Baby

The Atlantic Manor Official Website

More Album Reviews

About LOTD        Contact/Staff        Advertise        Home

All content  © LEFT OFF THE DIAL 2001-2005. All rights reserved.