2008 Woodie Awards
WRCU Review
WRCU Staff
Issue date: 10/14/05 Section: Arts & Features
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Metric - Live It Out
Brooklyn-based Metric is a band with such a distinct sound that you'll always remember. The band features electronic beats, heavy guitars, classy lyrics and remarkable female vocals. Their latest album, Live It Out, proves to be much louder and less electronic than previous releases. Although the new album is not as catchy as 2003's Old World Underground, it is definitely worth the listen. There are even subtleties and references to past hits including the track "Hand$hake$," which remind me of lyrics in "Combat Baby."
However, this is no implication that Live It Out is a sequel to Old World Underground. Named after their metered approach to music, Metric has moved away from dance beats and has developed a heavier, punk-like vibe. Emily Haines, singer and keyboardist, still captivates listeners with her voice and sassy lyrics, especially in the opening track "Empty." Other noteworthy tracks include "Patriarch on a Vespa" and "The Police and the Private," which incorporate whiny yet addictive vocals and eerie keyboards. If you enjoy Live It Out, be sure to check Metric out on tour this month.
- Nicholette Alcorta
Gene Bertoncini - Quiet Now
Gene Bertoncini played in a small club near my house about 4 years ago. Before picking up Quiet Now I thought I knew what he was about: incredible talent and a good sense of humor. He normally played his guitar in a weeping position, bent over the strings with a borderline kitschy fervor.
Surprisingly, the record didn't correspond with my expectations. The album seemed mediocre in its first minutes. I have to stress the consideration that should accompany listening to a solo guitar album. The guitarist is more minstrel than any other player. He is the one most likely to be able to play requests at the whim of an audience.
With characters today like Metheny and Scofield, Bertoncini plays the role of your father's guitarist. He isn't going to break a lot of conventions. This album works when the listener is in a pensive mood and can focus on Bertoncini's interpretations of standards. "Lush Life/Isfahan" and the title track are particularly intriguing. If this album doesn't charm you, enjoy the irony of an aural means of communication titled Quiet Now.
- Brendan Young
Brooklyn-based Metric is a band with such a distinct sound that you'll always remember. The band features electronic beats, heavy guitars, classy lyrics and remarkable female vocals. Their latest album, Live It Out, proves to be much louder and less electronic than previous releases. Although the new album is not as catchy as 2003's Old World Underground, it is definitely worth the listen. There are even subtleties and references to past hits including the track "Hand$hake$," which remind me of lyrics in "Combat Baby."
However, this is no implication that Live It Out is a sequel to Old World Underground. Named after their metered approach to music, Metric has moved away from dance beats and has developed a heavier, punk-like vibe. Emily Haines, singer and keyboardist, still captivates listeners with her voice and sassy lyrics, especially in the opening track "Empty." Other noteworthy tracks include "Patriarch on a Vespa" and "The Police and the Private," which incorporate whiny yet addictive vocals and eerie keyboards. If you enjoy Live It Out, be sure to check Metric out on tour this month.
- Nicholette Alcorta
Gene Bertoncini - Quiet Now
Gene Bertoncini played in a small club near my house about 4 years ago. Before picking up Quiet Now I thought I knew what he was about: incredible talent and a good sense of humor. He normally played his guitar in a weeping position, bent over the strings with a borderline kitschy fervor.
Surprisingly, the record didn't correspond with my expectations. The album seemed mediocre in its first minutes. I have to stress the consideration that should accompany listening to a solo guitar album. The guitarist is more minstrel than any other player. He is the one most likely to be able to play requests at the whim of an audience.
With characters today like Metheny and Scofield, Bertoncini plays the role of your father's guitarist. He isn't going to break a lot of conventions. This album works when the listener is in a pensive mood and can focus on Bertoncini's interpretations of standards. "Lush Life/Isfahan" and the title track are particularly intriguing. If this album doesn't charm you, enjoy the irony of an aural means of communication titled Quiet Now.
- Brendan Young