Search - Boycrazy :: Foreign Words

This Portland, Oregon, combo has been quietly active for the past few years: mainstays Rachel Blumberg and Bryce Edwards have released a great demo tape and 7", appeared on a few compilations, and played around the Pacific Northwest. After taking an extended break to serve as the rhythm section for Elephant 6 associates the Minders, Blumberg and Edwards have assembled their first permanent lineup and recorded Foreign Words, their first proper album. Whereas their previous recordings relied on a Crabs-ish sense of enthusiastic amateurism, Foreign Words is a lush and mature work, built around Edwards' friendly, blasé low vocals and Blumberg's high girl-group harmonies and constantly inventive drumming. Violin, melodica, bowed bass, and various effects unobtrusively peek in at various points, and the effect sounds at times like an update of Left Banke baroque-pop. Which is not to say they've sacrificed their enthusiasm: indeed, "Stark Street," "Apartments," and "UFO" sparkle with the sheer joy of playing music. A welcoming record that doesn't give up all its secrets right away. --Mike Appelstein