Modest Mouse

Editor's Review:

This, the first major label record from indie mainstays Modest Mouse, is a truly staggering collection of tunes that find the band exploring a myriad of sounds, from that tried and true guitar-driven indie rock sound to more lush tones and exploratory songwriting.

The Moon and Antarctica will pleasantly surprise some fans and new-comers to the Modest Mouse sound, while indie hipsters who long for that stripped down, low-fi sound might find this a bit rich. Still, the depth of the songwriting can't be denied here. Implementation of deeply acoustic-sounding guitars with distorted vocals and incredibly recorded drums provide a full spectrum of sound, and listening through a good set of speakers or a fatty pair of headphones will reveal an expansive range of crisp, clear highs and deep, punctuating lows.

Pop songwriting intricacies are meshed with tricky production techniques, Modest Mouse's honest lyrical content and delivery, and guitar-based rock to create 15 tracks original and interesting music. Tracks like "Gravity Rides Everything," and "Wild Pack of Family Dogs" have catchy, softer acoustic tones, while others, like "The Dark Center of the Universe" and "Paper Thin Walls," take that acoustic sound to a more energetic level. And songs like "A Different City" and "I Came As A Rat" hit that driving gate that reminds the listener that Modest Mouse is indeed a rock band. Both melodic and rhythmic, the vocals are as much a part of the music as the instruments, often following and enhancing the cadence of the music itself, making The Moon and Antarctica a musically all-inclusive offering, and a damn fine record.

Bookmark:

Record Label Epic Released June 2000

Tracks 1. 3rd Planet 2. Gravity Rides Everything 3. Dark Center Of The Universe 4. Perfect Disguise 5. Tiny Cities Made Of Ashes 6. A Different City 7. The Cold Part 8. Alone Down There 9. The Stars Are Projectors 10. Wild Packs Of Family Dogs 11. Paper Thin Walls 12. I Came As A Rat 13. Lives 14. Life Like Weeds 15. What People Are Made Of