It is difficult for indie bands to gain much exposure outside of their local area, and so indie compilations are often popular--both with the bands who relish the exposure and with fans looking for something new. Word Records offered twenty bands the opportunity to be featured here, and already several of them are on record labels.
As usual, the quality of music here varies. Most of the bands are in the modern rock vein, from the light pop side to a slightly heavier one in places. To be honest, not much stood out to me, but Chris Taylor (ex-Love Coma) presents what is probably the best track, with a partly acoustic, worshipful song. There are a few other bands that have fairly good songs, and all the bands are competent, but if this compilation shows anything, it's that you need something special in the current indie scene if your recordings are to stand out.
2.5 tocks
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 1998Reviewed by Shari LloydMindy's Revenge is an intriguing concept. Word seems to be trying a little market research and letting the buyer pay for it. I'm not sure what I think about this idea. While it sounds like a good practice, in principle I object to having to pay for their market research. After you listen to the CD, Word would like you to vote for your favorite band (which they may then sign). Anyway, Mindy's…
