Frank Lenz
"Conquest Slaughter" CD
Velvet Blue Music
Genres: folk-pop, folk-rock
December 2005 |
The dark and slightly amateurish cover to Frank
Lenz's Conquest Slaughter doesn't exactly separate it from
the pack, but I'm certainly glad I rescued it from the monstrous piles
that comprise the Indieville stacks. Lenz, a scene veteran who
has played with the likes of Pedro The Lion and Starflyer59,
composes melodic folk-pop songs usually based around loose, laidback
rhythms and sweet pop hooks. The formula is a lovely one, remaining
both relaxing and engaging - a combination that's often difficult to
put together. "Circus Cat" could be
Conquest Slaughter's strongest song. It boasts a dark, chanting
background behind a pretty yet unsettling melody sung by Lenz.
At six minutes it's treading in dangerous waters but somehow it never
gets bland. Opener "The Man With the Curse on his Head," meanwhile, is
completely different - it's a cute, uplifting pop tune with a warm,
pretty chorus. All of the songs share a sparkling melodic style, but
remain original and unique nonetheless. Only strange minor-key opus
"Lonely, Handy Chap" and Songs: Ohia influenced "I Feel
Canadian" flop a little.
Overall, Lenz's Conquest Slaughter
is a rewarding and original folk-pop record that truly deserves your
attention. Perk your ears and give this a listen.
86%
Matt Shimmer
[Vitals: 10 tracks, distributed by
the label, released 2005] |