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Chart Magazine-Nov./99
PARTS UNKNOWN Airshow (Dot-Dash) This sophomore album from Toronto's most avant-guard four-piece is a triumph. The nine songs on display not only showcase some excellent playing and eerie loops, but several phenomenal vocal performances from Derek Westerholm. His affecting voice swings between the atonal ranting of Mark E. Smith and John Lydon, but at times offers a hint of forlorn loveliness as evidenced by David Gedge and Ian Curtis. Parts Unknown wear their influences proudly on their sleeve, and rightly so since they're damn cool influences. Elements of The Fall, The Wedding Present, Devo, Prolapse and the Pixies are up front for the trainspotters to catalogue one at a time, but beneath the surface lurk snatches of Quickspace, Can, Wire, Magazine, Neu! and many more. Producer to the stars, Dale Morningstar, lends the album a dramatic balance (with apologies to Readymade) which makes PU, along with godspeed you black emperor!, one of Canada's most innovative and dangerous bands. Over the past six years (and five releases) the group has built up a devoted live fanbase, thanks to shows with audiophile favourites like The Lilys, The Swirlies and Mean Red Spiders. Their concrete music style endears them to DJs everywhere as well. Repeated listens to songs like "Verdant Green," "Acceptance/Denial" or "My Brain Disconnects" will reveal something new and unconventional each time; you will never stop hearing new noises on Airshow. Highly recommended for people getting a little bored with their record collections. -Mike McCann |
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