 Various
Artists
"A Map of the Woods" CD
Shmat
Records
Genres: indie pop
Shmat Records
PO Box 1191
Alahambra, CA 91802
Jul 19 - 25 2004 |
In true Shmat Records tradition, A Map of the Woods is a fine
pop compilation collecting fifteen charming tunes from the label's
roster members. The likes of Carte Blanche, Avoidance
Theory, Hrududu Factory, Tigerella, and Awestruck
Dumbfounded are all represented here. Upon my initial run
through Map, Hrududu Factory's lovely,
dramatic "Garfield and Valley" caught my attention
especially, although it is in Shmat's nature that every listener will
find their own favourite song on this comp. Every tune is
special in its own way, and it is up to the audience to single out
those that speak to them best. Awestruck Dumbfounded give us a couple of
tracks, one soft and
one more peppy. Light Sleeper, Tigerella, and Carte
Blanche occupy similar territory, creating simple, guitar-led pop
tunes ("Pop Song" and "Don't Forget Love" are
highlights.)
Although A Map of the Woods rarely diverges from a simple
formula - soft, cozy indie pop - its melodic variety never becomes old
and stale. This is worth your time and money, and you'll be
happy to learn that it doesn't require much of either.
85%
Matt Shimmer
[Vitals: 15 tracks, distributed by the
label, released 2004] |
