Keith Canisius follows up his utterly wonderful Rumskib debut with an equally impressive solo album, Ferris Wheel Makeout. Thankfully, Keith doesn't use this opportunity to make Rumskib 2. It would have been easy for him to repeat the same sorts of formulas found with the band, but instead, he takes his music in a poppier, headier direction. Incorporating softer melodies with complex guitar techniques, as well as dance beats (!!), Ferris Wheel Makeout shows that Canisius is no mere retro-shoegazer. Indeed, there's a definite pop element explored here; listen to the catchy-as-hell "Naive Struggle" and try to resit its charm! Same thing with "Watching Old Films with New Eyes"--that guitar turns a nice trick, the beat is dance-worthy, and the vocals are heavenly!
But don't fret if you miss those strong elements of Rumskib; simply flip over to "Far From" and "29th Escape," and you'll find a little bit of that, too. For the most part, though, Keith has slowed it down, mellowed it out, and made a really wonderful record that further explores and promotes his talents as a songwriter. A fine record, this!
Listen To: "Naive Struggle"
Ferris Wheel Makeout is available now on Quince RecordsLabels: Keith Canisius, Quince Records, reviews c, Rumskib |
