The Melting Hopefuls released their debut album Space Flyer in 1994, and now the five piece (three women, two men) band from the East Coast is back with a 26 minute EP, featuring 7 new songs and a remix of their alternative hit "Pulling An Allnighter On Myself".
Even though, like most other artists, they despise comparisons, names like Breeders or Throwing Muses come to mind when listening to this disc. During the more quiet moments of Viva La Void, there are also associations with girl pop band like the Go-Go's, but crunching guitars soon lead back to the indie rock road. Beyond the generally solid musicianship, the breathy, sweet voice of lead singer Renee LoBue and the groovy bass lines are worth special mentioning. The songs were recorded live in the basement studio of the band, the simple production gives them a very fresh and immediate touch. The song writing is far above average, as well as the interesting lyrics.
While not being ground-breaking, this entertaining release is heartily recommended to lovers of the alternative female rock genre. The Melting Hopefuls are a band with potential, you shouldn't be surprised to see their van called Spongey carrying them much farther in the future.
Big Pop is on the web at http://www.bigpop.com/~bigpop.
