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Dambuster |
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From the opening chord, screaming like an air-raid siren, you know you're in for a good time. Part Pixies, part Peppers, part Pearl Jam, this album features tight playing, interesting musical arrangements and enough versatility to keep surprising you throughout its 36-odd minute running time. The whole concept of the album grabs your attention before you've even pressed play: the cover is a bunch of pilots standing next to a plane, all dressed up in combat-gear, with the super-imposed faces of Avatar members. These fine musicians are: Mac Vandermeer (vox, guitar), Doug Ackerman (guitar, vox), our own Llewellyn John (bass), and Gerhard Spykerman (drums) - all featured on the inside-cover in uniform (yum!). The album's 11 tracks have been subdivided into themes: Take Off, In Flight and Bombs Away - each theme backed by appropriate warplane photos on the back cover. I like it. Right, onto the music! I don't know who was responsible for writing, arranging or producing - I would love to have named these people, because every track on Dambuster is thoroughly enjoyable, imaginative, well produced and wonderfully played. For my money, the songs have that essence that makes them appealing to listeners across generations and walks of life. Llewellyn's fine bass-playing can be heard beautifully throughout the album, but my favourite track for showing off his machine-gun precision is Ponte Pilot - have a listen to the straight 8ths grooving effortlessly into a reggae riff...can't wait to see this live. The songs are subtly crafted to lift you and drop you, mellow you out and even fill you with rage. I love the sense of humour on this album: Tot Scenes is all about good-byes, Cuffs 'n Dogs covers that embarrasing police-dog incident, and Click Click...well, it just appealed to me. Another track I really enjoyed was Fossil Fuel, making use of some great vocal and "audience" effects. Unfortunately, Quicksand ran out a bit soon on my copy of the cd due to some glitch in the matrix...or was this planned? I'm not sure. But what I am sure about is that this album is a fantastic piece of work, as far as I'm concerned, and I'd love a signed copy (hint, hint). Each musician is absolutely spot-on with their playing and I am pleased to report that not only is the edgy voice of Mac Vandermeer a pleasure to listen to, but he annunciates beautifully as well. The vocals are also mixed just right - not masked by guitars, nor "cabaret" and too high above the level of the band. Dambuster is equally at home speeding down the M1 on your car system as it is at a house party or club. Get your hands on a copy NOW! |
