REVIEW: Baby Ray, Monkeypuzzle (Thirsty Ear)
- Joann D. Ball
Baby Ray is not typical. Rather quirky, a bit odd at times but certainly captivating and entertaining, this Boston-based quartet delivers what they call "pop gone wrong." And that ain't at all a bad thing.
Baby Ray has just tossed out the debut album Monkeypuzzle for you to play with and it should keep you occupied for a long time. What seems simple, straightforward and breezy on the surface, is actually a collection of stuttered rhythm patterns and melodies which explores a full range of subjects, experiences, and emotions.
On the lead track "Never Know My Name," lead vocalist/guitarist Erich Groat picks up where such bands as the Judybats and Guadalcanal Diary left off. His affected vocals aren't southern but are stamped with a wacko/bizzaro sorta twang that comes from his own secret place. On "The Ballad of Baby Ray," Groat travels from the deep growl vocal territory of Webb Wilder to the tippy-top highs of his own range, the result being a very descriptive account of this unusual being.
The one band whose influence is everywhere but in no particular place on this record, is British pop pioneers XTC. Fans of Partridge and company will likely resonate with most of the tracks here, and fans of such different performers as Primus, Barenaked Ladies and Robyn Hitchcock should delight in the entirely offbeat "Buster Pig Man" and "Thing Called Springtime." Those who prefer their pop a bit more straight will take an immediate liking to "Sugar Mine!" But the plaintive vulnerability of the acoustic (but way too short) "Curl" and the sweet "Check It Out" are both unexpected gems, even on this surprise-filled record.
From the folky-pop skiffle of "Little Red Caboose" to the instrumental magical mystery tour that is the unlisted bonus track at the end of "Monekypuzzle," it is obvious that Baby Ray is all about a fun, guitar driven sound. Overall, Baby Ray is a real treat and a wonderful, happy little plaything that quickly grows on you.
