Hhhmmmm?!
Within the context of a review, being compared by to a more ‘established’ band is generally intended as a compliment to the band and a recommendation to the reviewer. Generally speaking, this works…
…except when in this case, the first words I read on the accompanying PR sheet compares the Brontosaurus Chorus to Los Campesinos. Now, I understand why this reference may entice many readers to listen to the CD with their ‘positive hat’ sidled at a chirpy angle on their head, but I’m afraid the metaphorical effect on this particular reviewer was to encourage the search for a balaclava!
There are eight members of Brontosaurus Chorus and they utilise an eclectic mix of instruments to produce their big, full sound. Cello, violin, trumpet and accordion are used in conjunction with the usual, guitar, bass, drums and keyboards. However while all the songs with the exception of closing track ‘The Plot’ are upbeat and quite ‘full on’ they tend to verge on the ‘sickly’ side – at least to my punk-conditioned ears they do.
I think that taken in isolation, every song on this seven-track album has its merits, and for a three-minute individual window, all would sound innovative and fresh. But for twenty-seven minutes in total? I’m not so sure.
The vocals are certainly distinct and quite different, sounding as if Kate Bush had been inhaling from a helium-inflated balloon. (Sorry – I know that sounds a cheap jibe and it wasn’t intended to offend…. though it probably did!) After a while though, it does become a little wearing and tedious.
That said, the songs have pretty strong hooks and especially so with ‘Now We’re Making Out’ the chorus of which does burrow into the subconscious. And the trumpet on this track is a better fit than on others.
Somewhat perversely for me, it is the slower, final track ‘The Plot’ that grabs the attention. Perhaps because Jodie’s vocals are softer, more suited and complimented by hushed harmonies from Matthew; perhaps because of the strummed bouzouki (or Italian equivalent, or whatever it is – I’m a writer not a musician for God’s sake!) but any roads, it’s a nice pleasant song that builds to a strong, almost orchestral climax.
Look – I’m a grumpy old man. This isn’t for me, but that doesn’t mean to say you’ll not find it fun. Worth checking, then.