CORKSKREW - NO ORDINARY MAYBE
December 2004
Two years on
from their remarkable debut, Micromania, which received commendable
reviews both locally and abroad, Corkskrew are back with a new album.
And never has the word �new� had more weight than in this particular
case, as No Ordinary Maybe moves at a tangent from the pop sheen that
informed much of Micromania. Openly flaunting a rougher edge throughout
its 12 songs, No Ordinary Maybe brings out a new side of the band, one
that was probably also there on Micromania, but had remained submerged
beneath that record�s multiple layers of smooth production.
This time around, however, Corkskrew have taken a different approach.
The distinct lack of keyboards on this record (partly out of necessity
and partly by design) has allowed more space for each individual to
develop his/her role in the band�s new sound. As a result, you�ll find
that the combination of more elaborate basslines, raunchier guitar,
spirited drumming and Diane�s less refined but more passionate vocals
has brought out Corkskrew�s harder edge, dark in places but definitely
more rock than pop!
Songs like Blind Spot, I Do and the title track are all fine examples of
this new direction, with a strong alternative (for want of a better
term) essence deep at their core. Further to this, I can picture Blind
Spot and I Do�s soaring choruses garnering strong reactions from both
local and foreign audiences. The album is in fact strong on such
appealing melodies, even if these are crafted in a different climate to
the ones on Micromania. And yet, while they are less �in your face� they
are there nevertheless � firmly maintaining Corkskrew�s natural identity
deep inside the band�s resplendent new sound!
Recommended weblink:
www.corkskrew.net
