Monday, February 13 2012
Story Falls Short While Artwork Rises in Corben’s “Murky World”
Truly a mixed bag--the legendary Richard Corben demonstrates why his artwork has enthralled generations, yet fails to craft a narrative of similar elegance in this oneshot that brings the best of Robert E. Howard-pulp to mind.
Zola Jesus: 3 February 2012 - Austin, TX
Zola Jesus had accomplished what they set out to do. Their set had completely transfixed those in attendance, and left little doubt the band is a live force.
Van Halen: A Different Kind of Truth
A Different Kind of Truth is a return to form, but that doesn't mean it captures the brilliance of Van Halen's early recordings.
The Phantom Family Halo: When I Fall Out
When I Fall Out is the first of two thematically-linked albums from Brooklyn’s the Phantom Family Halo to be released this year, and as good as it is, it leaves you almost breathlessly wondering how the follow-up will sound like.
Eyvind Kang: The Narrow Garden
The Narrow Garden is a score to a nonexistent film. While beautiful, the album echoes of a grander context that it's lacking.
‘The Listener’s Voice’ Recalls Early Days of American Radio
There are incredible similarities between the analog and digital age. Unfortunately, this volume doesn't make stronger connections between the two, although it frequently wants to.
Outsiders Tell the Story of the Other America in ‘Black Power Mixtape 1967-1975’
This film gives us a look back at a puzzling and fascinating moment in American history that casts a different light on '60s idealism and the death of that decade's ideals.
‘Erasure’ Is Bitter, Vicious, Hilarious and Extremely Important
Percival Everett's on-target satire eviscerates everyone from Oprah to your English professor.
The Screaming Tribesmen: Date With a Vampyre / Top of the Town / Bones and Flowers
The Screaming Tribesmen are a solid rock band. This re-issue of some already released material and first time release of some live songs, B-sides, and demos shows that they had some talent, but not a lot of hidden depth.
Friday, February 10 2012
‘Return’ Keeps Tight Focus on a War Veteran’s Experience
Now back in a small world, a world both familiar and strange, Kelli does her best to return to the way things were.
The Lemonheads: 27 January 2012 - Lawrence, KS
Indeed, it seemed that the unwavering appreciation for Ray was all that most admirers found appreciable. That’s in part a shame for Evan Dando; it’s also a mistake on the part of the public.
‘Perfect Sense’ Presents Global Disaster and Intimate Loss
Perfect Sense presents the end of the world using an irresistible sci-fi/allegorical hook: humanity is literally losing its senses.
‘Journey 2: The Mysterious Island’ Is Obvious
As Sean looks for something "real" in Journey 2, he's drawn to the Vernians' diehard faith in the non-fiction of Jules Verne's books.
‘The Vow’ Is Conventional, with Complications
The Vow is a conventional love story with a ghostly chasm in the middle, a weepie for Valentine’s Day cinemagoers.
‘Safe House’ Is Ersatz Edgy
This distinction between what the film's designated pros know and what you know -- or can guess, based on your experience with these sorts of films -- quickly turns tedious in Safe House.
Two Days in Sundance: ‘Ai Weiwei’, ‘For Ellen’, ‘Middle of Nowhere’
Unfortunately, the two days didn’t provide enough time to see everything, but that’s what the rest of the year is for.
Underworld: A Collection / 1992-2012: The Anthology
Twenty years (or so) in, the seminal techno act releases two very different compilations. Both succeed on their own terms.
