| THE WAGNER LOGIC self-titled CD |
Two 19-year olds in Alaska get together, form a band, then move to California to make it big. It's a quintessentially American story; one could almost see Busby Berkeley directing "Andy Hardy in Alaska." Jeremy Wagner and James Glaves, aka the Wagner Logic, have given us a CD which is enthusiastic, fresh-faced, and fun. It's an unrefined and low-fi effort, but the rough edges only add to the charm. The first track, "What I Say," begins with a fuzzy, distorted electric guitar, and then features a vocal/vocoder duet. There's not a whooshing synthesizer to be found on the entire track: this could have been recorded in the 1970s by a bunch of kids playing with real instruments -- the kind you play, not program. It's catchy and memorable; with some work and a more professional production, this one has definite potential as a single. "Shot Nerves" works in the same vein, but is somewhat less successful. Glaves has an interesting voice, but hasn't yet learned his range. As a result, a couple of sour notes sneak through. There were a couple of high points, though, notably a grungy electric guitar solo which reminded me of Neil Young. The Yanni Song" tells a tale of unrequited love (is there any other kind?), over a simple chord progression and 4/4 drum beat. It's sloppy but no less heartfelt for that. I'm not sure why they call this "The Yanni Song." There are no pompous synthesizer riffs on this track -- or on this CD, may the gods of alternative music be praised! Nor does Linda Evans' ex get so much as a mention (not that he deserves one). I might change the title of this one, but other than that is just fine. At 9:10, "Something is Nothing" is as long as the three songs preceding it. The opening formula is the same -- guitar riff and drums -- but more intricate and harder this time. I was reminded of power pop like the early Police as Glaves chanted "I don't know where/is where you stand" over a solid guitar backdrop. The song may need some editing; the distorted spoken word interlude in the middle of the song is not really necessary to the narrative flow. Still, it's a good solid effort which makes me look forward to their sophomore CD. There is not much advice I can give a young, promising band like this... other than "Practice, Practice, Practice." Some are born musical prodigies; the rest of us only improve by sitting at home doing scales until our fingers or throats are sore. I'd also suggest, nay, urge, nay, BEG them not to lose their enthusiasm. CDs like this one help to restore my battered faith in the music industry. Recorded February 2001 at Area 51 Studios, Kasilof, Alaska 1) What I Say* c. 2001 Evil Heidi Music Wagner Logic on AcidPlanet.com |