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Scrabbel:
1909
There's something cinematic about riding public transportation that makes a good soundtrack essential. When I first listened to Scrabbel's 1909, I was taking the train home from work, and every track seemed to push me further into that mental state that allows the mundane act of staring into space to become introspective. Like many good indie pop bands, Scrabbel pairs 60's psychedelic sensibilities with offbeat vocals and of course, a string instrument or two. The result is a collection of songs that occasionally sound like something you might dig out of mom and dad's record collection, and just as often like that really amazing twee band on your favorite mix tape. Formed in 1999 by Dan Lee and Becky Barron, Scrabbel has been a work in progress since it performed its debut show at a 2000 film festival. The duo went on hiatus in 2003 while Lee began playing keyboards for the San Francisco supergroup, Aisler's Set. When it came time to record 1909, Lee sought the help of Aisler's Set bandmate Alicia Van Hueval as well as Total Shutdown's Peter Nguyen and Ladybug Transistor's Gary Olson. The cello stylings of comic book artist and writer Hellen Jo are also featured prominently throughout the album. Lee counts classic musicians the Beatles, The Who and David Bowie as his biggest influences; perhaps that's why after only one listen, 1909 already sounds familiar. Standout tracks include "Not Right" and "Waterloo Sunset," and while the lyrics are too soft spoken to be called catchy, the melodies will have you humming along and staring into space on your choice of public transportation in no time. By the time Lee sings, "All over the city / Wish that you were with me," on "Last Train," you'll be hooked. Just try not to miss your stop.
Check Amazon, Insound and CD Universe to purchase this album.
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