Pop music for indie-rock-snobs and groupie gals alike, Oregon's Bendixon has taken an impressive leap in execution from their self-titled demo-release, which showed promise and potential but had some bugs. Apparently time spent on songwriting and character development paid off for the young foursome, because The Slaying of the Dragon is a smart, mature yet youthful composition of hooks and personality.
Weezer is paid glowing tribute on this disc, and apparently even loaned Bendixon some trademark riffs and guitar distortion/atmosphere sample tricks, a la Sweater Song and My Name is Jonas. Refreshingly, though, the obvious influences come across as respectful, and do not seem lethargically derivative or impede on Bendixon's individuality and personal charisma. The overall sonic is best described as a peppy approach to experimental pop, vaguely similar to angles taken by Jetenderpaul and Trans Am, but with more overt charm and amiable rock and roll sensibility (that is not in the least bit a slight to Jetenderpaul or Trans Am—brilliant pop-crafters, rather just an attempt to explain the lighter aura found on Bendixon's work).
Standout songs are The Laser is Mightier than the Sword—college radio friendly, and Deep Seeing Eyes—an innocent ditty that smoothly saunters through the concept of divine parentage. Mark Cleaver's vocals are personable and controlled, the bgv's and instruments are well mixed, overall production is polished yet true to the indie-rock spirit (courtesy of Ashely Stubbert and The Rodd of W's fame), and the synth samples are appropriate. Bendixon still has some room to grow in the songwriting arena, and some progressions tend to drift and hang, but for the most part they are flirting closely with pop excellence. Oh, and the arena-rock drum solo on Humans Only Live So Long is hilarious. This CD is highly recommended.
