About
It's no surprise that Stephen Malkmus' solo outing is not a big departure from his well-spent time with Pavement. As the backbone and main songwriter for one of the greatest bands of the '90s, his non-linear lyrical approach and chopped musical sense defined a big part of independent music. Sure, he's got a different rhythm section, but the Pavement stamp is all over his new material. If there's a main difference, it's a freer approach to lyrics: sillier and happier when he wants to be, quieter and more personal when it works. Tales of pirates and bonding over Dire Straits are all subject for the irony-laden pop songs. Malkmus also digs into the Classic Rock barrel and comes up with handfuls of Thin Lizzy and Royal Trux. If that's not enough, Malkmus' guitar work is becoming increasingly more fluid and interesting. And let's face it: if there's no room for the axe-wielding, smirking guy in Portland (his home base), then there's no room for anybody.
- Jon Pruett
