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Capital
City Free Press
Volume 2, Issue 2, September 2002
by Kristin M. Thomas, Senior Writer
CD Review:
Ed Kemper Trio: "How to Win a Sword Fight"
Refreshing and ever so raw is how I would best describe
the Ed Kemper Trio's latest contribution to the
indie rock scene with "How to Win a Sword Fight."
Signed to Yawn Records last year, this group has
been hard at work and it shows. Definitely not something
my country-loving father would appreciate, as per
the usual, the album isn't the usual prefabricated,
overly manufactured crap you hear coming out of
the major labels.
Instead, what was created is that edgy, raw sound
reminiscent of yesteryear's punk days, only with
more talent, intelligence and originality.
It would not be fair to categorize what these guys
have done because they break the traditional mainstream
mold of rock. Technically, the trio has this math
rock appeal intermingled with a good dose of old
school punk and hardcore that many of us gray-haired
punkers can identify with and any young punk can
appreciate.
With a driving rhythm, heavy bass, acidic vocals,
chaotic guitar and samples that seemingly come straight
from the mind of Nick Blinko--Kenny, Vonda and Glenn
engage in a full assault on your senses. This album
does not deviate from that pattern. More like mad
scientists in their laboratory, the Kempers have
created something definitely unique and a little
frightening. It'll make you want to dance around
like a chicken and yell like a madman. It's one
of those grab-you-by-the-balls kind of feelings.
This is just about the best album the Kempers have
put out to date and one of the best CD buys of the
year. |
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