Search - Self :: Gismodgery

Toy genius.

Hogarth Hughes | Rockwell, ME | 09/18/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Extremly hard to obtain but an absolute CD necessity, GISMODGERY is the fourth commercial release from the unchartably creative SELF. An interesting novelty (toy instruments) done in a manner of dignity, this record is just plain supercool. Once again MATT MAHAFEY and his bandmates prove their cutting edge pop know how is unmatched. This Japanese version is the same as the U.S. release save the import's bonus track, RESURRECT, which makes this disc worth the extra bucks (not to mention the fact that the U.S. version is all but impossible to track down). A must for the alternative pop afficianado."

SELF MASTERY.

marc | new york | 03/12/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"For production value (or should i say genius?) MATT MAHAFFEY cannot possibly be outdone. This album was recorded solely with TOY INSTRUMENTS...thing is you shouldnt be fooled. As childish as it HAS to be, this is no amateur, silly, indie-rock record. Nor is it some low grade attempt to be arty or avante garde. Which the concept might lead you to expect. AND THAT IS WHAT MAKES IT STAND OUT AS A CUT ABOVE. This is top-notch brilliant pop music made with toys!!? And as usual SELF is relentlessly versatile and creative with composition.Once again showing off their ability to flow in and out of different musical styles with mastery. A fine example of this point occurs with the cover of "What a Fool Believes" by the Doobie Brothers. Just in case this isnt sinking, let me say this again. We're talking "What a Fool Believes " played on toy instuments!!!??? What's most impressive is all of the TOYS on the album were recorded w/out the help of a sample machine yet the production sounds so good you cannot fathom how it was done.

Did I mention that this isnt even their best record?"

Definitley worth your while

MAC | FL | 02/06/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I am a newly found SELF fan and this cd blows me away every time I hear it. It's incredible how every song is done with toy instruments. It makes me wonder why noone has ever thought of it before. It is a must-have and a great investment for anyone who appreciates good music."