By Genre Industrial ode to the ego
ode to the ego
Friday, 22 May 2009 10:21 | 
Author: The Grouch | 
A couple of weeks ago I got an email from Lucy Kalantari asking me if I'd give a listen to her alter ego's new EP. The name of the band is Elwood Emission (Like Elle Woods?)
and the EP is called ode to the ego. If I read correctly it seems that Lucy has spent a lot of time in the "Adult Contemporary Scene" before deciding that she did not want to make elevator music. Enter Elwood Emission. I wasn't sure what to expect when I read the genre is industrial. That can be good, I've heard Iggy Pop referred to as industrial. It can also be bad, I've heard a lot of crap that is supposed to be deep also called industrial.
Track 1: - The Invitation - was a huge disappointment. The constant strumming of the ukulele got on my nerves. That coupled with the Yoko Ono like howling really irritated me. I came very close to skipping the album.
I am glad I didn't.
Track 2: - Other - has a really cool groove. I dig it and find myself keeping time to the synth / guitar. Her voice sounds much better on this track. There is even a nice Jazz inspired keyboard bit (which is surprising I like, but I do). The song keeps my attention and makes me smile. I'm reminded of Lena Lovich.
Track 3: - Run - The new wave inspired synthesizer continues. The music is hypnotic and again her voice sounds good. The little piano runs remind me of The Bad Plus. (Check out their album Give for a really cool version of Iron Man - heavy metal Jazz)
Track 4: - Despicable - The best song on the EP. The New Wave/Jazz vibe keeps my attention as she uses her very good voice to totally rip some ex-boyfriend a new one. We learn that he is a waste of her time and in one word Despicable. Well done Elwood.
Track 5: - Stillness - This is a Jazz piece. I really like the Piano and the drone she uses to create tension. I'm again surprised at how much I enjoy this song.
Track 6: - Divine - I like the Piano and the strings. This is a good, heavy, song - it is slow and grinding. Like many of her songs it is quite hypnotic. I'm not sure what she is singing, but I enjoy the song.
Bottom line: Track 1 sucks. The rest are good. She jams in the same way George Benson jams - its not rock and roll, but it does have soul. I would like to see her live. Grouch rating: 3 and 1/2 scowls out of 5 - well done! A worthy addition to any collection.
Add your comment
Last Updated (Friday, 22 May 2009 11:41)