The Oscars--Blow Yourself Up
self-released 2003
So, you're having a really bad day and feel like you'll explode if you don't get a vent from things quickly? The answer to your quandry is the musical lightning rod of negativity known as the Oscars. If their CD, Blow Yourself Up, isn't enough to help you piss out the poison, it's time for professional therapy.
It seems the Oscars most often get compared to the Urinals and that comparison is in fact fair. You could also say there's something slightly akin to the Leaving Trains going on with Blow Yourself Up. Basically, what you get from this disc are five tracks of mildly angular and very dark punk rock. The sound quality and production are just right--not lo-fi enough to obscure any of the blackened energy coming full-force at you but murky enough to enhance and compliment the material.
Speaking of the material, it's all superb. On "280 ZX," the angular aspects of the Oscars really shine through. This particualr song echoes a feel similar to that of early DGC-era Sonic Youth. The disc's closer, "Jump For Joy," stands out as well and should appeal a great deal to fans of bands such as the Reatards. Though different influences come through in the subtleties from track to track, this material is very cohesive and stands up well as a collection.
As good as Blow Yourself Up is, one could surmise that the Oscars must be absolutely insane in a live setting. Until you get a chance for that experience, this CD should more than tide you over. A really great first release that will leave you excitedly looking forward to what these guys will come up with next.
Score this CD directly from THE OSCARS
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