Pia Fraus - In Solarium

  by Benjamin Howarth

published: 10 / 7 / 2002

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6-piece group Pia Fraus have created an interesting noise with their debut album, which is somewhere between indiepop, shoegazing and art-rock. Kart Ojavee is responsible for this, playing various synths and also a Farfisa on the album as well as being credited for making “noise”. This and the interplay between the other musicians ensure that the record is distinctive, and one that rewards repeat plays. At times the music washes around the listener whilst elsewhere it can be abrasive and awkward. The clash between the sweet indiepop melodies and the aforementioned noise is often chaotic, but also effective. Whilst Pia Fraus, however, aspire to be like The Aislers Set, Simpatico or Airport Girl – bands who push back the boundaries and challenge a little within the indiepop scene – there are at times, however, in which they fail at this because too often they fall back on overly simplistic guitar lines and dull, repetitive melodies. It’s a real shame because the band is noticeably different style and has created an effective formula. It's clear from tracks like '400 & 57' and 'How Fast Can You Love' that Pia Fraus are capable of magic, but unfortunately on 4 of the 10 tracks of 'In Solution' they really let themselves down. Indiepop purists would be well advised to take a risk with this CD, but shouldn’t be expecting a classic.

Track Listing:-

1 400 & 57
2 Right Hand Traffic
3 the end of time and space like we used to know it
4 bibabo
5 no need for sanity
6 octobergirl
7 outskirts of me
8 how fast can you love
9 on you
10 zodalovers

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