Thursday, January 19, 2012

Mr. Bungle - California








Mr. Bungle had proven by this point that they were masters of the odd and left-field, yet they managed to prove themselves again by putting out an album that is...Poppy? Yes, this album is surprisingly melodic and accessible compared to their previous works, and a couple of songs sound like they could even be radio hits (and actually deserve it). Don't worry, it still has a lot of the same idiosyncrasies, nonlinear song structures, and absurd and sardonic lyrics that marked the band's previous works -- just with more melody and songwriting smarts. Besides, the melodies are creative, heartfelt, and intelligent, and Patton really shines here as a classy singer. The influences of swing, easy listening, folk pop, and rock show up here more than ever. As usual, all of the musicians play pretty well.

Then the band broke up, never to return. Damn. Oh well, I'd take pedigree over longevity any day. It's part of the reason why Calvin and Hobbes is so legendary: Bill Watterson knew to quit while the series was still good. All of you aspiring comic designers should take note, since we all know how attractive, rewarding, and lucrative that art medium is these days.

Favorite track: "Goodbye Sober Day"
Least favorite track: "Golem II: The Bionic Vapor Boy"

Get it here

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