steering clear of the mainstream
since 2001

june 2010

review
blankred.jpg (4669 bytes)
blankred.jpg (4669 bytes)
blankred.jpg (4669 bytes)
blankred.jpg (4669 bytes)
info opinion

Lost on Purpose

"Rising Wildfires" CDR

Self-released

Genres: instrumental rock

Lost on Purpose
1444 N. Poinsettia Place
Suite 111
Los Angeles, CA
90046

June 21 - 27 2004

Lost on Purpose is the work of Wil Holland, a lo-fi songwriter from Los Angeles.  He has released a number of homemade CDRs in the past, including an EP and a spiffy album for his old band, Billy Baru.  Looking over his previous songs, it's quite clear that Wil has a strong talent for writing infectious, potent pop tunes.  While his releases do have their duds, they are usually of high quality - if only Lost on Purpose could garner a bit of exposure, Holland could be set.

The best songs on this album are the most straightforwardly infectious ones.  "Are You Ready," for example, combines breathy indie rock vocals with a brooding, moving guitar part - the result is somewhat sparse but still emotional and catchy.  The title-track, on the other hand, is a much more upbeat pop number - it has a cheery "hey hey" chorus and some neat background instrumentation.  The sorrowful "Sheets to the Wind" also impresses; its chugging guitar part is rough at the edges yet still quite beautiful.

Overall, Lost on Purpose's Rising Wildfires is a fine indie pop disc from a budding lo-fi songwriter.  Holland should keep at it - his craft is sure to become even better over time.

85%

Matt Shimmer

[Vitals: 10 tracks, distributed by the artist, released 2003]