I had a relatively lame day today. I forgot my umbrella and the bottom fell out as soon as I got off the bus on campus. So, I had to take my BLAW test while completely soaking wet. Work was alright. Then I got home.
I didn't expect much except some dry trousers, but lo and behold, what did I find in the post? A small package from London. Its contents included a small pin-on button and a CD from my dear friend, M.J. Hibbett.
I had ordered Hibbett's new CD a week or so ago from his website (http://mjhibbett.tripod.com/releases/amillionukeleles.htm) and it had finally arrived. I make sure to get all of his stuff, cuz I really like it, but this one was special. It was his first proper solo album (as his previous work had been with his group, the Validators).
The first thing I noticed, even before I popped in the CD was the unique paper case that held the disc. It was hand colored with good old fashion crayons and made up like origami so that when opened, the disc popped straight up at you like a pop-up book. This amused me greatly.
With a title like "A Million Ukeleles", I was really expecting acoustic covers of Validators songs by Mark with a ukelele. This is not the case, however. It's true that the ukelele is a prominent instrument, but none of the tracks are acoustic and most are original. The one that did stand out was "Programming is the Poetry of our Time", but that had never actually been released on an album (only in the interactive bonus tracks and demos).
In general, I'd have to say that this album is a lot more laid back than his earlier Validators works. The earlier albums were an eclectic mix of hard rock, cheery folky indie, and old fashioned fun. A Million Ukeleles, is very different in tone. Probably because it does focus on the ukelele, which is reminiscent of Hawaii and other Pacific islands. While many of the songs contain electric guitar riffs and what sounds like a backing drum machine, the wispy carefree attitude permeates through out.
I can't say it's my favorite of his albums, but it's definitely a fun listen. I've only listened to it a couple of times so far and perhaps I'll change my mind after a few more. I'm a sucker for an outstanding heavy, distorted guitar riff, which this album is lacking. We'll see, though.
And I'm not saying it's bad. Far from it. I do really like it. All I'm saying is that it's not something I'd keep in my glove box to listen to when the radio sucks. If you're into softer, lighter indie sounds, however, then "A Million Ukeleles" is for you.
Cheers,
~~Ben
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Tuesday, October 23, 2007
A Million Ukeleles
Labels:
I Love Music,
music