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Shelly Blake: 1995-2005 Volume 1
[Ringing Boots]

Is this a joke? No, really, I have to know if this guy is for real. Shelley Blake has just recently released his uber-pompously titled album Shelley Blake 1995-2005 Vol. 1, and I dont know what to think exactly. Both Splendid and Alternative Press have mentioned him positively when speaking of the fine line between genius and insanity. Right. I think someone is missing the point here. Who cares if youre insane or a genius if your music is shite?

I can see how people are tricked into thinking that this album is genius. Blake certainly displays a strange and tuneless voice full of passion, delivering deep thoughts about self-worth and love. Honestly though, people have got to stop thinking that just because Sonic Youth is good, so are crazy narcissists that record themselves taking a shit and calling it music.

Now, I realize that I have exceeded my limit for personal tirades and self-indulgence, but Im not even sure how to describe this Shelley Blake character. All I know is that the recording is a bunch of discordant wailing (not in the good, Yoko Ono way) over minimalist guitars and occasional drums. Blake is certainly original, if nothing else. So please be Blakes guest and make your choice: originality or talent.

This album can be purchased at CD Baby

Shelly Blake Official Website

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