Search - Lovethugs :: Playground Instructors

Norwegian Psych Pop Jangle

Wickerlove | Canada | 01/16/2004

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Another gem from the Rainbow Quartz label. The term 'Psych Pop' constantly pops-up to describe The Lovethugs, but the band is basically a vehicle to showcase guitarist Jim Faulty. His style combines the improv blues-noodling of John Squire (Second Coming/Seahorses) and the fluid crystalline jangle of Johnny Marr. His sound darts back and forth, consciously snaking and winding throughout each song. The vocals are average at best and the melodies capture the playful innocence of contrived British Invasion bands, eg, Hermans Hermits, Gerry And The Pacemakers. Yet this 'guitar jam meets 60's naivety' pairing works, mainly due to stellar crisp guitar-playing. The spirit of several Britpop guitar-gods live, which apparently has been exported to Norway."

Fantastic Northern sounds!

Wilhelm Jrgen Flatab | Nottingham, U.K | 03/15/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This band has really got one thing that's in short stock today: good and innovative melodies. Never mind that The Lovethugs have been compared to everything from the Doors to Sonic Youth. On this record there's some of the grooviest songs and melodies I`ve heard for a long time. Great guitar playing. Reminds you of Jimi Hendrix sometimes. The only drag seems to be that this is a very low budget recording: A bit unfinished. But nevertheless there's fantastic psychedelic sounds and melodies on this album. Beautiful!"