It takes a few listens
to grip onto Ans. Andur's Kiletron, although ardent
examination reveals solid hooks. The lyrics being entirely in
Estonian added to the intrigue (as well as some approbation)
associated with this album, though the band's musical influences are
less exotic - I hear shades of the Crunchy Frog label here, as well
as indie rock/pop mainstays R.E.M., Pavement, and the
Feelies. If the label's press information is anything to go
by, these folks are a fairly big deal in their home country, and
although Kiletron is a bit inconsistent, it certainly has the
personality and songwriting necessary to secure a local fanbase.
It is difficult to
isolate the "better" songs on Kiletron, because the album as
a whole is so eclectic. Juicy "Melodraama" boasts a mid-90s, grungy
chorus that's pretty memorable, while "100" and its pretty synth
backbone comprise the record's most convincing pop song. Also
notable are the Beach Boys-y harmonies and mannerisms of
twinkly "Sügisene meloodia" and jazzy "Suhkur." Kiletron may
require some amount of acclimation for North American audiences, but
it is still a refreshingly unique addition to the indie pop/rock
canon.