Mystic Chords of Memory are an American alternative rock duo consisting of Christopher Gunst of Beechwood Sparks and Jen Cohen of the Aisler Set.
They have released two albums with this self-titled one from 2004 on Rough Trade being the firsr.
As our American readers will surely know (I'm looking at you Brian) the bands name is a phrase which appears in the last paragraph of Abraham Lincoln's first inaugural address. Every day is a schoolday.
Amanda Petrusich from Pitchfork appears to like it giving a score of 7.7/10 and saying that it is full of soft melodies,sweet vocals and scratchy DIY production.I'm not so sure about the first two but she is spot on with the last
She goes on the band's sound is just as archaic as a truly striking political speech: Gunst and Cohen blend tinkling bells, melodica, harp, keyboards, bits of samples, tinny drums, and strummy guitars, presenting a vaguely contemporary update on the British folk phenomenon of the late 1960s-- albeit with more blips.
I'm afraid that this one does nothing for me (other than mildly irritating me)and it is definitely not a keeper.I can see why The Swede was happy to part with it!
One more new act to go then a couple of albums from bands who have previously featured in this series.
Mystic Chords of Memory - Sure, Bert
Mystic Chords of Memory - Mongo and Arky
I thought you liked being mildly irritated? How else do you account for George?
ReplyDeleteGood point!
DeleteI'm glad you chose to feature 'Sure, Bert'. It was the song we heard that tempted us into buying the album (which we were very underwhelmed with) and was the only one I ripped before passing the CD on to you.
ReplyDeleteBest of a bad bunch!
DeleteWriting to you from Illinois, the Land of Lincoln. Too bad this one isn’t going down better. Didn’t know this band before today, but I like Beechwood Sparks and love Aislers Set. Based on those bands, I will spend a little time digesting these songs. Thanks. - Brian
ReplyDeleteEnjoy catching up with your folks Brian
DeleteYou should copyright that 'mildy irritating' comment. It'll make you a few bob on these tracks. I've got an early Aislers Set alb which has survived a couple of culls so I'll have to go back and revisit it
ReplyDelete