Never heard of this band, was interesting having zero expectations for an album that is all over the place (in a good way, I think!). Some really great moments on here, though I feel like I need multiple listens to pin down a true rating.
This came as a surprise. I didn't know the band. None of the songs sounded familiar to me. Anyhow, I liked the album. The band creates an almost cinematic atmosphere and uses some sounds/instruments in an unobtrusive way that are usually not used in rock music. Well, I did not like all songs—"The Happy End (The Drunk Room)" is not my cup of tea.
I was not really familiar with Mercury Rev, knew the name of the band but not much more than this. And that was actually pretty good! Their songs are at the crossroads between a precious indie rock, with post- or prog-rock leanings, well carved melodies and a hint of shoegazing. Sometimes sounds like an updated version of the Floyds. I'll probably give this another spin(s).
Some of this reminded me of Mogwai
I went into this with no idea what to expect and it turned out to be an enormous amount of fun. In places it sounded like the soundtrack to a Disney film directed by David Lynch featuring flugelhorns, wurlitzers and even a musical saw. Stay around for the hidden bit on the last track!
Uff, hm, das war...interessant.
New to me. Awesome discovery!
Pretty decent for late 90s/early 2k post-grunge alt rock. A bit quirky and fun, but I probably won't play it again.