The W's
Trouble with X
Reviewed by A Girl Called Gordon
The boys from Oregon are back with another fun swing album. These guys have been practicing, it totally shows. They are more together and have been concentrating more on the improv part of their music. Brett, Val, and James are showing their band-geekness talent and sound like they are more comfortable playing with a guitar, bass, and drums. Todd and Brian show off their usual talented abilities of keeping the rest of the nut jobs in time. Little A, well, what can be said . . . his voice is deep and clear, definitely a swooner. The guitar, while great doing the swing / rock-a-billy thing, could stand to branch out with a bit more creativity. With the help of musical / producing genius Masaki and Dennis Culp (Five Iron Frenzy), The W's have put together an album that reflects the fun that they have in concert. (The hidden track is perfect!) Different varieties of swing are experimented with. They not only stick with the traditional swing style in songs like "Rather Be Dead" and "Play the Game;" they also touch on the country / folk by covering "Country Roads," originally sung by John Denver; Rock-a-billy is hit on with "Saturday" and "Where Should I Go." Does anyone remember Steve Taylor? Although he didn't write "Stupid," his sarcastic influence shines through - what a giggle! The last track on this project is called "The Rumor Weed Song." Now if this sounds familiar, then you are a Veggie Tales watcher. The W's were invited to be a part of the video and soundtrack for Larry and The Rumor Weed. The song is played under the closing credits and can be found on the soundtrack. This is an album that is fun to listen and to dance to. Have a blast!