(TVT)
If good news travels fast, why are The Connells still the best kept secret in American alternapop? Perhaps mainstream alternative/modern rock radio can answer this question because The Connells have certainly done their part to expose themselves to the American public. The Raleigh, North Carolina sextet has toured endlessly during the past twelve years, playing tiny bars, clubs and theaters and treating crowds to entertaining, energetic pop explosions. They've also released a series of brilliant records showcasing intelligent lyrics and ringing guitars, which have received critical acclaim and solid support from college radio.
When the cd Ring was released in 1993, it looked like commercial radio and MTV would follow college radio's lead and give the band the attention they deserve. Although "Slackjawed," the disc's first single, got noticable airplay, the follow-up "74-75" was completely ignored Stateside. "74-75" became a smash hit in Europe, however, and propelled the album to gold and platinum status in several countries. European success led The Connells overseas where they spent much of the last few years touring and playing to massive audiences.
Weird Food and Devastation, The Connells' sixth effort, and fifth on TVT Records, actually owes its title to the band's European touring experiences. A slight departure from earlier offerings, Weird Food and Devastation is more visceral, shaped by raw emotion and a rougher edge. There's also more lyrical and musical variation, in large part because five of the six members contribute to the overall effort. For the first time, the songwriting trio of lead vocalist Doug MacMillan and guitarists Mike Connell and George Huntley share duties with drummer Peele Wimberley and bassist David Connell. And mainstay Steve Potak contributes piano, organ and keyboards in all of the right places on this 14-track buffet.
The Connells kick off Weird Food and Devastation with "Maybe," a gritty sonic assault. MacMillan delivers this wake-up call over buzzing guitars, pounding drums and throbbing bass. "Fifth Fret," the first U.S. single, is another stellar guitar-fuelled tune, irresistable and memorable thanks to a catchy chorus. The rave-up number "Let It Go," on which Huntley sings lead, and "Smoke" are power pop servings with a Southern rock twist while "Start," "Any" and "Hang On" are classic Connells songs. The slower, introspective numbers that have provided balance on previous records are also here but darker and moodier. On the acoustic and lead guitar-laden "Back to Blue" and the cello and distortion-driven "Too High," the band exhibit genuine emotional depth and breadth.
On Weird Food and Devastation, The Connells demonstrate that they are truly alternapop artisans whose work is regrettably under-appreciated on this side of the Atlantic. To paraphrase the chorus of "Fifth Fret," they have everything but what they want, which is all of your attention.
