The Oscars--American Idol
Bootleg Records 2004
One of last year's most exciting new musical treats was the debut release from the Oscars, Blow Yourself Up. The only real question it left was whether or not the band would be able to ride the wave of momentum created by its quality, slightly angular, punk rock bashing. American Idol, the new Oscars album, provides that answer--it's a resounding "hell yeah, sucker," to say the least.
The thing that's immediately striking about American Idol is how much the promise evident on the Oscars' previous CD has blossomed. The production here sounds much less effected than before, fascilitating a greater sense of pure rock n' roll in the music. The Urinals/Leaving Trains influence at the heart of the Oscars sound thrives for this fact, as well as for the improved grasp of dynamics this material boasts. Bottom line: as killer as Blow Yourself Up was, American Idol annihilates it--stunningly so.
The jump in the songwriting department for the Oscars is just as startling. Remnants of the band's Sonic Youth leanings linger very subtly on "Practice Makes Perfect." The riff to "Blow Yourself Up" bears a peculiar, almost "stoner" rock quality and could be a revelation for burnouts who shy away from punk rock. Ultimately, it's the mellower moments of American Idol that shine brightest, though. The spacious "My Limousine is Waiting" benefits from a tasteful injection of keys, while the acoustic "Pinocchio Dick" affirms that the Oscars have evolved into a beast of great depth. Sprinkle in three cuts taken from the Blow Yourself Up disc, to season the mix a bit, and American Idol is damn near perfect.
You knew the Oscars were destined for great things after that last CD, but this is absolutely ridiculous. Almost certainly, American Idol will be looked back upon as one of the classic albums released in 2004. For fans of the last Oscars disc, the aforementioned bands, as well as the Final Solutions--brace yourself. Musically, the Oscars have officially come of age. Another exciting listen.
Score this CD directly from THE OSCARS
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