About
Not just your average everyday Surf revival outfit, Man or Astro-Man? creates some of the most compelling, well-crafted, and unique instrumental (well, for the most part) music around. While the Mermen expand on the Surf formula by incorporating a spaced-out, Pink Floyd-ian psychedelia, Man or Astro-Man? delves into experimental, edgy Post-Punk a la Sonic Youth. Strange and alien voices creep eerily into the musical mix; computer generated haunted spaceship sounds ooze into the sonic crevices. The guitars -- the foundation upon which all Surf is built -- are tweaked in ways that are unspeakable for purists. It's as if an amped-out Blixa Bargeld is sitting in with the band. Their live shows are multimedia extravaganzas: computer wizardry, video feeds, elaborate costumes, props, and the startling display of each member's impressive virtuosity and wild theatricality.
- Will Lerner
- Portions of Album Content Provided by All Music Guide © 2009 All Media Guide, LLC.