The only way to truely understand the sound of the Brian Jonestown Massacre is to hear the BJM itself. However, I will try to explain this to you myself any way.
The Brian Jonestown Massacre is a slower, more complicated band than most. Take the original components of music- guitar, bass and drums- and add in a large number of other instruments and you've begun to start the sound.
At times it has maybe a feel of Beck or something along those lines to it, as it can be rather mellow. It has a great long drive home in the middle of the night quality to it. It also- in some of the slower numbers- has characteristics of the Beatles, or some of my favorite more modern bands, birddog., the Fairburn Royals or Pajama Party in a Haunted Hive. Some of the faster, more rocking songs could be best compared to the likes of the Doors.
But, again, to best understand the BJM, you must first hear the BJM.
If for no other reason, you should listen to this CD just for the song "Open Heart Surgery". Other stand outs include "Nevertheless" and "You Have Been Disconnected".
Definitely not your typical band. Definitely not your typical music. But, then again, why shouldn't it be?