Search - Chris Connelly :: Whiplash Boychild

Connelly at his best

Stephen Kent | 06/11/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I discovered Chris Connelly when I saw him perform with Ministry on their "Psalm 69" tour in the early 90's. I was shocked to discover that this album, being his first solo venture, was not the all out agro-industrial onslaught of Ministry. "Whiplash Boychild" instead shows a wide variety of styles, ranging from soft and heartfelt to techno-esque to good old fashion rock 'n roll. This is one of those albums that is very hard to sum up as every track is so disparate and unique, yet they still somehow form a cohesive whole. After a few listens I realized that this was something rare and special in the world of popular music, as this album really clicks on all levels. Musically, it is strikingly beautiful, injecting one with lovingly crafted melodies. Lyrically, it is haunting and soulful, the voice of a poet. And then there is some ineffable quality cultivated in repeat listens that is pure magic. Give this one a try, you might just find yourself slavishly collecting all of Connelly's records before you even know what happened."