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Capillary Action: So Embarrassing
ByBesides all the impressive technicalities, the band jubilantly morphs disparate genres into the grand schema. It's asymmetrical parts, skronk, jazz, classical, avant-pop and other genres all interweave into a rather comprehensive team-centric stance. Chock full of blitzing and odd-metered time signatures, amid '70s style prog-rock organ overlays and a bit of Spanish bravura on "Paperweights," the ensemble plays with the mind's eye throughout. However, the musicians combine elements of dissonance with triumphantly orchestrated melodies on various pieces, often counterbalancing with layered string and horn arrangements.
Pfeffer's vocals often steer the band's course via a wealth of ideas that at times elicit notions of a rock-opera compressed into a time capsule intended for aliens. But it's remarkably cohesive and not superfluous. Otherwise, it's a gem of an album from a band that abides by a musical manifesto that is miles above and beyond the norm.
Track Listing
Gambit; Pocket Protection is Essential; Elevator Fuck; Placebo or Panacea; Bloody Nose; Badlands; Paperweights; Father of Mine; The Chaperone; Sexy Koala; Self-Released.
Personnel
Jonathan Pfeffer: vocals, guitars; Spencer Russell: acoustic & electric bass, vocals; Ricardo Lagomasino: drums, percussion; Kevin McHugh: keyboards, vocals; Zachary Crystal: percussion; Johnny Butler: saxophones; Matthew Nelson: tenor saxophone; Ryan Snow: trombone; Andy Hunter: trombone; Jeffrey Young: violin; Jessica Pavone: viola; Caleigh Drane: cello.
Album information
Title: So Embarrassing | Year Released: 2008 | Record Label: Pangea Recordings
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