So this year's submission was probably the most efficient record time I've ever participated in. A lot of structure went into how to approach each day of writing and recording. That being said, it made the entire process way less stressful. I think that the Shanty could have pushed for more material to bring the stress level up a little, no joke! Although the philosophy of late has been to put out decent quality over quantity, I think that sacrificing some quality might be necessary next time around (which was the approach to the Bitchin' material of any of the old (record)timers that can remember II thru V)
Anyways--A couple reviews..
Strange Battery
Ah, the battery is back! No alkaline need apply, SB's got lithium ion in the house! I really, REALLY, enjoyed Dan's contribution this year. As much as Dan will downplay this album, Grenadine is my favorite Waldkirch album recorded to date. It hones in on what I see to be every one of Dan's musical strengths: great melodies, fun hooks, concise story-lines, pinpoint themes, and a basement full of instrumentation. Not to mention that everything within the mix sits well on this album. I can hear what I want to hear within each song. After finishing a conversation with another friend, it was concluded that this album is especially great because each tune is perfect to sing while drunk. Favorite track is Mabel and Me. Artwork is... adequate.
Clock Systeme
EXACTLY what I needed to have submitted for Record Time VII. I've been addicted to the Tron Legacy soundtrack for the past month. Droides has a similar crunchy electronic sound (although significantly different in concept) that the Tron Legacy soundtrack has. The culmination of sound clips, rhythms, and crunches blend into a brilliant jumble of calculated sound. Great transitions, and very choice textures throughout. This is my favorite submission of RTVII. My best classification for this album is 'Electronic Soup'. Artwork is pretty fitting and fun as well.
Eric Sherman
These tracks have a very Johnny Cash feel, which is absolutely 2 thumbs up in my book. However, with a much more modern approach to lyrics and production sound in my opinion (even though there was the attempt to make many of the tracks sound 50s/60s retro). I enjoyed all the tracks, and my favorite is The Sun Is Only Shining At Me From The Bottom Of A Whiskey Bottle. Drunk whistling, check! Artwork is pretty cool too, but it's 2011! (maybe that's intentional).
