Search - Johnny Marr and The Healers, Healers :: Boomslang

A relentless and nonchalant groove...

The Kid | Harrisonburg, VA United States | 04/27/2006

(4 out of 5 stars)

"BOOMSLANG tends to take a beating in the reviews, and I think its unfair. There's real shine in this album with tunes that stay with you. Plus, Johnny sings great...who knew?! This is one solid album from start to finish, with a terrific groove right down the middle. And it is about time we see Johnny step out as the frontman.



Sure, Johnny's not particularly showing off his guitar chops here. Perhaps he doesn't have to, nor want to. He still layers his guitars like nobody else. And the feel is right on with this one. It seems to me like he's found a feel he likes and wants to follow it a while. I, for one, am happy for the ride.



Which is what makes this album far more listenable and consistent than anything by THE SMITHS or ELECTRONIC. And I'm a fan of both groups. BOOMSLANG actually feels like a 'band' album, something THE SMITHS and ELECTRONIC never quite achieved. Sooner or later (often sooner than later, sadly) Morrissey or Bernard Sumner always became the focal point, and let's face it, neither one of them is half as interesting or talented as Johnny.



BOOMSLANG holds up well. It is great in the car, around the house, and on the beach. This album is like Johnny...cool.

"