Isn’t it ironic that this year, where our future seems so uncertain and we walk around at times in disbelief, that many of the classic bands from 10 or even 15 years ago have resurrected their monikers and songwriting teams to return once again, triumphant? And they’re better than ever, not some tired group whose country fair tours are planned to put them back in black.
AMC is right at the top, and I would even go so far as to say this is my favorite album of there’s so far. Mark Eitzel has always had a way with words, but the quite and lyrical style of “Myopic Books” made me smile and laugh. The beginning starts as he walks down the shimmering streets that glisten from the fog, wishing for a café that plays Dinosaur Jr., and had people working there that are skinny and unhappy. I always wondered why some of those kids were so grumpy. I guess I would be too if I had to wake up at 5am.
It’s this offbeat look at life, analyzing himself to a fault as he also takes in his immediate surroundings, which makes his lyrics run through your mind throughout the day. Combined with the laid back style, complex layers and even the jazz orchestration on “The Devil Needs You,” is why AMC still flourishes today. Loves Songs For Patriots to the collection of classic put out by this band. Just another reason to got to the record store. Darn.
American Music Club plays Lions with Will Johnson (From Cento-Matic), Wednesday, November 17 at Lion’s Lair in Denver.
