REVIEW: The Connells, Still Life (TVT)
- Joann D. Ball
After a much needed break, Raleigh, North Carolina's all around good guys The Connells return to the forefront of the pop-rock vanguard with the bright and focused Still Life . On their seventh release, The Connells capture the essence of thirty-something life and deliver a record that celebrates maturity, love, friendship, fellowship and fun.
Still Life would probably never have materialized had it not been for the honest soul searching and tenacity of the band's six members. After nearly 15 years as one of the brightest stars among the original alternative/college bands, The Connells have consistently delivered outstanding records and entertaining, high-energy live shows. But after a trying period of extensive touring for their last two releases, 1993's Ring and 1996's Weird Food & Devastation, the band succumbed to a serious case of artistic and physical burnout. in early 1997, the Weird Food tour came to a painful end when lead singer Doug MacMillan was diagnosed with diverticulitis, which necessitated surgery.
But in the midst of adversity, The Connells found strength in their friendship, their hometown and the music which initially brought them together. Still Life reveals a healthy and happy band that is brimming with energy, enthusiasm and confidence. The record opens with ""Dull, Brown and Gray" which is anything but that, given the trademark whirling and twirling guitars of MacMillan, Mike Connell and George Huntley. And the rhythm section of drummer Peele Wimberley and bassist David Connell is ever-tight and solid under Steve Potak's swirling organ. The fact that things aren't as bad as they seem is an ongoing theme on this record, evident on the punchy second track "The Leper," and the upbeat "Bruised." Huntley spins his usual folksy fun tales on "Curly's Train" while the mellow "Gauntlet," one of two tracks penned by MacMillan, has a sensitivity and directness that is incredibly moving.
With 13 well-crafted songs, Still Life has an eveness that makes it a delightful listen. Without a doubt, The Connells have returned to the musical high road they've always claimed as their own with intelligent and sincere lyrics and inspired musicianship. Each of the six members of the band contribute at least one track on the record, making it a truly collective project. For the first time in years, The Connells are positive and optimistic about the future of the group. And rightfully so, because given all that preceded it, Still Life is one hell of an accomplishment.
