God Of Rain
I was anticipating this album after reading the reviews…
“Don’t be surprised when you succumb to their magic;
they weave a potent spell…”. I could not have said
it better myself! It was incredible, and quite imaginative.
The use of instrumentation and vocal placement is unexpected
and creative. I love the bongos and congas; I just adore percussion!
My all-time favorite track was “At the Party,” a
song you have to hear to believe!
My only complaint… the dark, Oriental scheme of the graphics
does not accurately depict the fun, upbeat musical concoction
contained on the CD!
I definitely suggest you all check it out… it is quite
worthwhile!
(4 1/2 STARS out of 5)
-BOSTON SOUNDCHECK MAGAZINE (Boston, MA)
Summer 2001 Issue
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ISWM INDIE PICK OF THE MONTH -
It's no surprise that Shave Librarian has managed to create
yet another solid piece of work that defies reality.
Known for their eccentric arrangements played against uncluttered
lyrics, Shave Librarian is a powerful group that hovers above
pure twisted genius.
-INDEPENDENT SONGWRITER WEB MAGAZINE (Online Review) June 2001
Issue
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From Faith No More's "Introduce Yourself" to almost
anything by Kate Bush or Dream Theater, there have been countless
albums that fature well-made music with very hard-to-tolerate
vocals. This album, predominantly a showcase of Brian Riley's
songwriting, is yet another one of this sort. Riley is clearly
a highly accomplished composer, but his lyrics are another matter
altogether.
The music on all eight songs is derivative of an impressively
broad and well-rounded scope of influence, and is very expansive
in its variety of feels and flavors. From rock to funk to modern
jazz and all shades of pop music, Riley has no problem pulling
any of it off well.
Indeed, this is an album with few flaws. However, his words
more closely resemble schizophrenic word salad than anything
else. It's nearly impossible to figure out what in the hell
is his point on any tune, but at least he seems to be enjoying
himself.
The title track features a big, open, classic sort of rock
sound, but it's nearly impossible to nail down the point of
the tune. Similarly, the funky and syncopation-filled "Kooper
Pills" seems to have something to do with drugs, but it's
pretty difficult to be sure. At least the industrial-ish rocker
"M.O.D.A" (Machine Of Defensive Action), seems to
have a decipherable message, as well as an impressive solo section.
Anyway, the album does succeed as a whole despite these flaws,
and if it's good music you want with words that are easy to
ignore, this is the album for you.
-NORTHEAST PERFORMER (Boston, MA) February 2001 Issue
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