Never mind that they're from New Jersey. Don't pay attention to the Steve Albini credit. Flat out ignore the usual label they carry in reviews, "an intelligent pop band". It's all one big lie alluding to the inevitable. This band is actually one rippin' roaring mama!
From the depths of the Jersey shore comes this silly little crazy band o' wackos. Best remembered for "The Boss" and Bon Jovi, New Jersey has actually spawned some strong driving bands. Monster Magnet, Nudeswirl, Godspeed and still my favorite, Daisycutter, are amongst the finer hard edged sounds you think only come out of New York City. And Lizard Music, in their unique pop approach, represent eclectic sounds of our generation of music.
Before Ministry and Nine Inch Nails, there was Steve Albini. More acurately, there was Big Black, one of the best hard driving bands of the 80's. What does this have to do with Lizard Music? Everything. Albini helped shape the sound that is Fashionably Lame. And Lizard Music perfected their vision into a 13 track release.
Don't trust that first instinct to demand your money back. If I hadn't magically received this in the mail, I too would've been wringing someone's neck. Don't listen to that pounding you'll cause to your head the second time either. It's just not worth it. Otherwise you'll miss your chance to experience what you'll never forget. That third time, now that's the charm! You'll be hooked on "the Lizards" forever.
Claiming influences from Rita Coolidge to Rita Moreno, these swank boys from the Garden State don't miss a step. Hidden in tracks like "Jacko's Book" are more funk oriented sounds. In general, the entire CD plays more like a well thought compilation of similar sounding bands. Which is favorable because no one want to listen to the same song 13 times!
