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"What if the Carpenters were into dark progressive space
rock?"
That's what the promotional sticker on The Youngs' self-titled
cd said. I was at once fascinated and filled with fear. I do not like
dark progressive space rock, and the idea of the Carpenters playing
space rock was even more terrifying than run-of-the-mill space rock.
And so, like a death row inmate walking to the electric chair, I tentatively
sat down with a (very large) glass of wine and began to listen.
I've come to the following conclusion: You'll either like them, or
you won't.
The Youngs are a quirky band with a unique style. Musically, it's
an interesting album. Compiled of rock, jazz, and electronica, their
music defies any conventional genre. Eryn Young's vocals are
refreshing, and duets with fellow band member and husband Timothy
Young, are (for the most part) beautifully crafted.
From songs about a heavenly road trip from hell ("Break Down"),
to ruminations on the end of their lives together ("Pre-Emptive
Love"), the album revolves around the relationship of the husband
and wife duo and their experiences together. While not earth shatteringly
profound, the lyrics are adequate and interesting. Full of abrasive
vocals and sloppy composition, "Again for Love" and "Pride
and Shame" are the only two tracks that I cannot lend a forgiving
ear. In fact, "Pride and Shame" was so terrible that I was
tempted to reconsider my initial semi-positive impression of The Youngs.
But just as I was losing faith and patience, I found the hidden track.
With beautiful duets and off beat lyrics, this brilliantly composed
rap parody is definitely the best song on the album.
Despite the occasional lyrical and compositional aberration, I'm
going to give The Youngs a thumbs up. If you buy the CD and hate it,
at least you can take comfort that there's a kick ass hidden track
at the end.
-Emily Vandiver
Track Listing:
1. The Last Migration
2. Breakdown
3. Cold Wind
4. The Industrial Way
5. Killing Of The King
6. Again for Love
7. Pride and Shame
8. Walk On By
9. America
10. Pre-Emptive Love
(11. Untitled Track)
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