I usually start off any release by Deep Elm with the obligatory 'this label has never released a bad CD' line, but it's actually so true it hurts. Name a poor CD they've put out...you just can't. Slowride's third full-lengther keeps up the tradition of releasing quality records and what DE have managed to do well recently is mix up the sounds of the bands they are putting out. If Latterman and Small Arms Dealer aren't your thing, then maybe Slowride, Burns Out Bright or Fightstar will be.
There's a Jets To Brazil-esque garage rock feel to 'C/S', often chugging along with heavy basslines and lazy, drawl-like vocals. But throughout there's an exceptionally high level of musicianship and a set of brutally honest songs. 'It's Good To Be Back' rumbles and builds up to a beautiful quiet part, 'The Year Of The Snake' snarls and bites while 'Morals and Dogma' reminds me a little of Jawbreaker. Dan Phillips' vocals stood out for me on 'Building a Building' and they don't disappoint here; often they sound lazy but it suits the low-end production values which add to the garage rock feel the band give off. And anyway, how can anyone not like a song like 'Elouisa'? Another quality release - you know what to do...
Deep Elm Records
Paul
