erasing clouds
 

TonyDoug's CD Reviews

by tonydoug wright

7L & Esoteric, A Moment of Rarities (Babygrande 2005)

The History: Boston-based hip-hop collaborators 7L and Esoteric have been working together since 1992. Their first album was released under the name God Complex but they soon changed their name back to 7L and Esoteric. Over the past 10 years this duo has toured the US and Europe, collaborated with underground artists and produced albums for artists such as WWE wrestler Jon Cena.

The Review: Generally, albums of rare demos, outtakes and unreleased tracks are full of sub-par material that is marketed for the hardcore fans willing to buy anything from their favorite artists. That's the case with A Moment of Rarities, featuring unreleased material that dates from the mid-to-late 1990s. A Moment of Rarities gives the listener a glimpse into the career of two respected Boston hip-hop artists, whose sound is similar in my mind to House of Pain at times.

The Bottom Line: This release may not be the best introduction for new listeners, but to truly dedicated fans it'll be something worthwhile.

Website: www.7l-esoteric.com

Immaculate Machine, Ones and Zeros (Mint Records, 2005)

The Band: Brooke Gallupe, Kathryn Calder and Luke Kozlowski

The History: Immaculate Machine is based out of Victoria, British Columbia and has been together since 2002. Before they released Ones and Zeros, they released the EP The View and the LP Transporter. Band member Kathryn Calder contributed some piano and vocal tracks to the New Pornographers' 2005 album Twin Cinema.

The Review: Ones and Zeros is a decent pop-rock release, featuring vocals from both guitarist Brooke Gallupe and pianist Kathryn Calder. Unfortunately the album is not that memorable overall, which is a shame because a few of the tracks to be really enjoyable, including "Statue," "No Way Out," and "Broken Ship." The music on Ones and Zeros is a little too formulaic in its sound to really stand out, and make them the current darlings of the indie scene.

The Bottom Line: If you dig stuff like The Arcade Fire and Fiery Furnaces then this might be up your alley.

Website: www.immaculatemachine.com


this month's issue
archive
about erasing clouds
links
contact
     

Copyright (c) 2006 erasing clouds