published: 24 /
6 /
2005
Label:
Thrill Jockey
Format: CD
Witty, accomplished second album from the Zincs, who are fronted by Chicago-based Englishman James Elkington
Review
Pity all those bands that struggle gamely to make a great album, all those Ride’s, Terris’s, House of Love’s, bottling it under pressure and breaking up, humiliated. Even very good bands find life very difficult. Pity them because some bands make life sound very, very easy, and the Zincs are one such band. They can turn their hands to any genre they feel like, write witty but poignant lyrics and have a really good vocalist. Their second album, 'Zimmer', is a thoroughly solid record, well played, well recorded and well conceived. It is a triumph for all those who believe you don‘t have to aim high (or be high!) to make good music.
James Elkington is an Englishman, but he lives in Chicago, and on his second album he has made the Zincs a full band. They back him brilliantly, as if they had been playing together for decades. Violins, harmonicas, organs add life to a standard indie rock back up. Like Pavement, there’s a hint of country and a bit of classic rock, but basically its an indie album. Elkington has a very British wit, finding humour in the blackest imagery. And as he repeats, “Don’t make me laugh”, on the standout, 'Stay In Your Homes' we are reminded that wit doesn’t always have to be cheerful.
With 'Dimmer,' the Zincs should reach a wide audience. It is hard not to like this album. The songs are well written, the band can play and it is tasteful but not too generic. Once again, Thrill Jockey have signed a band that will delight their audience.
Track Listing:-
1
Breathe in the Disease
2
Beautiful Lawyers
3
Bad Shepherds
4
Passengers
5
Stay in Your Homes
6
A Colt's Tooth
7
Moment is Now!
8
New Thought
9
Sunday Night
10
The Meagre Prick
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