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Stephen Malkmus & the Jicks
Real Emotional Trash
Matador / Domino
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Article
written by Will B
Mar 3, 2008.
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Stephen Malkmus’ post-Pavement work has been something akin to the curate's egg; good in parts. As frontman and principle songwriter with Pavement, Malkmus' had a knack for infusing their offbeat indie-guitar sound with subtly addictive melodies and wry, often hilarious, lyrics. However, as with many a solo artist, his material has lost some quality control without the input from his former band members. Case in point being 2003's 'Pig Lib' album. However, after reconnecting with the Jicks (who played on his debut solo album) with his 'Face the Truth' album, he is back with a vengeance on 'Real Emotional Trash'.
Using the template of previous outings but taking it in a more countrified rock 'n' roll direction and expanding on the elements of yore to create longer, more meandering soundscapes, Malkmus has crafted a record of some substance. There's no real rush here, with most songs taking their time and clocking in at over five minutes, with the title track reaching the finishing line at just over double that. There is an almost improvised feel to the album as a whole, as if only the basics of the song were planned before hitting the record button and seeing where the mood would take them.
Opening track 'Dragonfly Pie' is filled with fuzzed up guitar riffs and, courtesy of ex Sleater Kinney stickswoman Janet weiss, fantastic drumming, whilst both 'Baltimore' and 'Gardenia' offer a more concise structure and are potential singles. However it's the epic jams that are the real high point on this album, showcasing a group of talented musicians working together to create a set of songs that grow together and sound comfortable next to each other, with album closer 'Wicked Wanda' proving to be a real highlight.
So whilst it's somewhat distanced from the sound that gave him a place in the hearts of many with Pavement, 'Real Emotional Trash' is a snapshot of Malkmus and his band as they are in this moment in time, and that's got to be better than revisiting past glories.
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