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| This review
originally appeared in Amplifier On-Line May 1998 |
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Vox
Pop
Vox Pop
Sandbox Records | 1998 |
Vox Pop consists of (Rubinoos) Tommy Dunbar, Al Chan,
Donn Spindt, and (Psychotic Pineapple) John Seabury. Although the bulk
of material was recorded several years ago, Vox Pop sounds anything but
dated. Pop fans will instantly recognize the driving guitars and vocals
of Dunbar, whose writing and instrumental chops appear here in top form.
The energetic "Must Be A Word" kicks the record off with a supercharged
power chord riff, contains explosive percussion from Spindt, and of course,
features glorious hooks and harmonies. Spindt is perhaps the record’s secret
weapon, and even dedicated fans of the Rubes will have new appreciation
for his talents after listening to Vox Pop.
"Offer I Can’t Refuse", "Ink & Paper", and the humorous
"Shanghaied" all feature memorable melodies, and the excellent ballad "Grey
On Grey" may, in fact, be one of Dunbar’s very best songs. "Trust", a Dunbar-Kyle
Vincent composition, rocks the house, while the roots-tinged "You Don’t
Know Her" satisfies and features neat Dunbar chicken-pickin’. "Repossessed"
is perhaps the best track of all, courtesy of jangling rhythm guitars,
a killer lead guitar break, and a glorious chorus. A few bonus tracks,
including "Rosetta Stone", round out this wonderful record. With Vox Pop,
Tommy Dunbar and his cohorts aim for the moon and hit it. Simply put, Vox
Pop is essential summertime (or anytime!) listening for every Pop fan.
-- John Holcomb |
