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Ripe For Purchase

EvolMachine | Norman, OK USA | 01/17/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I bought this CD for $ in the Bargain Bin because one of the tracks shares its title with one of my favorite Built To Spill songs, "Center of the Universe". When I listened to it on the drive home, i was not surprised that it was not the same song, but i was surprised that the CD was a keeper, rather than one I try to sell back for a profit. After listening to their mellow Centre of the Universe, I knew I liked these Aussies. Center of the Universe has a slow, melodic guitar, covered by a layer of noise. After listening to this, i started the CD from the top, with the track "Something Fierce" which starts out with a guitar riff covered by a phaser effect, and some controlled feedback. The vocals are remarkably like Gay Dad, but more bearable. "Supernatural" starts out with a punk guitar with a Lynyrd Skynyrd twist, and continues to maintain their mellow effect. The fourth track, "Moondriven" begins with their ever imaginative guitaring, before breaking into a loud part filled with dissonance in the guitar. The vocals on this track are slightly harsher throughout the verse, and the song provides a break to the mellowness, which, unlike many bands attempts at a change, is refreshing. After this, the next two songs continue on the mellow way mixing great guitar parts with melodic vocals. "Mother Figure" is about as rough as this album gets before ending on "Daylight Wants To Kill" a track with dissonant guitars and an aggresive bass line. All in all, the 8 track album is highly accessible, and always fun to listen to, regardless of my mood."