What's cooler than picking up the new 7-inch or 12-inch and pulling out some deliciously colored vinyl? Well, if the current trend among indie bands is one to covet - then it's a deliciously colored cassette. Numerous bands on a variety of labels; Sub Pop is no exception - have chosen to offer limited releases on cassette. So far, to the best of my knowledge, these releases have consisted of live material, demo material, b-sides, or remixes - this is no exception. Ice Station inludes 2 new tracks, 4 live tracks, a demo, and 4 songs recorded during studio sessions. What I wasn't prepared for was how incredible this cassette was going to be. Every song is masterfully executed, and this release outshines anything the band has done previously. It leaves me coveting a new full length.
Screen Vinyl Image, for those unfamiliar with them are among the crop of new shoegaze bands to emerge - carrying with them the best of elements of the early-nineties darlings MBV, Lush, Slowdive, etc. and integrating the soundscape with electronics, and JAMC Psychocandy-esque noise. It's an exquisite visit - and though few can come close to the perfection that A Place To Bury Strangers has mastered, there is enough deviation and experimentation by their peers to provide fodder for those seeking more. "All Places", the final track on this release is so gentle in it's approach, you're barely coherant for the abrupt end. Sort of like having the adrenaline syringe stabbed into your heart to bring you back from places unknown and all too comfortable. "Siberian Eclipse (Demo)" would serve well as the soundtrack to "2001: A Space Odyssey", or any Kubrick film for that matter. As a whole - this release is amazing. It is still available through their site, and you will get a download code so you don't have to tear into your cellophane if you don't want to. I haven't (yet). I hope to see them live this year. I don't think they've been through my neck of the woods, but hopefully that will change.
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