steering clear of the mainstream
since 2001

june 2010

review
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info opinion

Last of the Juanitas

"In The Dirt" CD

Wantage USA

Genres: indie rock, math-rock

Wantage USA
PO Box 8681
Missoula MT 59807

July 18 - 24 2005

Last of the Juanitas, though far from a household name, have a number of albums under their belt - including one named Brangus that featured Drive Like Jehu guitarist Rick Froberg. Since then, they've eschewed Froberg as guitarist, but have retained a Drive Like Jehu-like angularity and aggression. The band's sound is sort of like a metal-pumped math-rock blend, combining raw aggression with rhythmic complexity. One of their singers is female - which is a bit of a surprise at first, but the mix ends up working quite well. Male vox also come into play, creating a more dark and pulverizing feeling. Much of In the Dirt is instrumental, focused on quiet/loud contrasts and drilling, destructive guitar/bass/drum music. The entire experience can be quite draining, what with the carnal intensity and high energy level - but if you can handle the power, there's plenty to enjoy. With that said, a lack of memorable melody can relegate In The Dirt to only occasional listens, though their explosive style makes for a lovely mind purge every once and awhile.

81%

Matt Shimmer

[Vitals: 10 tracks, distributed by the label, released 2005]