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The English System: Banded Blue
Dear Banded Blue, by the English System, Baby, when I first met you, I was dazzled by your glossy production and competent musicianship. I figured, sure, shes attractive on the surface, but I bet shes the type of album that I could have a meaningful relationship with. But weve been together for about a month now, and I think we both realize that its not working out. Were just too different. I feel a need to develop myself personally and grow as an individual, while you seem content to sound exactly like every single other bland indie-pop album ever recorded, with your quiet-to-loud, clean-to-distorted dynamics that fail to create any kind of tension or drama and your sub-Rainer Maria wailing female vocals that dont express any emotion other than total ambivalence. I enjoy reading the classics of literature and writing clever little CD reviews, while lyrically you appear to be obsessed with some past relationship gone wrong that you are so vague about that no one could possibly empathize. Sure, weve had some good times, like your title song, where the drummer gets free reign to go crazy with some wicked snare rolls during the chorus and even takes a little semi-solo, bringing much-needed energy to the proceedings. But most of your songs simply seem over-practiced, with everyone so sure of their parts that they can calculate their income taxes in their head while playing and not miss a beat. Ive even begun to discover flaws in your appearance: your intentionally blurred cover art seems indicative of wanting to cultivate an intellectual and mysterious image, yet it simply reveals a lack of anything interesting to say. The fact that you are called Banded Blue but that your cover is completely green gives the impression that no one in the English System gives a shit. Maybe Im being too hard on you. I just listened to you again, and I have to admit, you have some pretty melodies and a few interesting guitar parts. Its just that they dont add up to much. An hour after I listen, I cant remember what any of the songs sound like. I think we will both benefit from our time apart. Who knows, maybe if we meet again in a year or two and youve figured out how to infuse some energy and content into your songs, we can develop a serious long-term relationship. But until then, just remember, its not me, its you. Definitely you. With fond memories, Nick Ammerman
You can purchase this album at Limekiln Records LEFT OFF THE DIAL's English System page About LOTD Contact/Staff Advertise Home All content © LEFT OFF THE DIAL 2001-2005. All rights reserved. |
