Search - The M's :: EP

Good album to discover the M's

Sal Nudo | Champaign, Illinois | 09/16/2006

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This EP by the M's comprises the first third of the band's self-titled debut CD, and it's a good way to discover the sound of this burgeoning Chicago band. A retro riff is noticeable right away on "Dirty Old Dog," and the smooth, British-sounding vocals on the track are pretty mesmerizing. "Banishment of Love" features a throbbing bass line and cool lyrics. The M's three-pronged vocal attack -- which ranges from laconic to high-pitched to Beatlesque The Beatles 1 tuneful -- gives the band diversity and a unique flavor. "Big Baby Bottoms" and "Break Our Bones" are noteworthy for their big, repetative choruses, similar to Oasis' Be Here Now and the Beatles at the finale of some of their songs. The bonus tracks are led off by a synth-laden intro; "Bringing Up Bees" reminds me of a Pink Floyd song from the album Ummagumma. "Sexy Suzy" features simple piano and simple rhymes, but hey, it's a bonus track from a great band. The last two songs are kind of throwaways compared to the M's usual stellar offerings, but if you enjoy '60s singalongs and psychadelia mixed with '90s-era garage rock -- but not as simplistic as garage rock -- give the M's a try. It's awesome stuff."