May 24–31, 2001
music
The Cigarette Girl from the Future
(Dischord/De Soto)
What it is:
Delightful/beautiful, sick/twisted art-pop EP from former members of D.C.’s Smart Went Crazy and friends.
What it sounds like:
Their website lists De La Soul and John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band among their influences. It shows.
The skinny:
If the reunited Roxy Music really want to recapture the chaotic brilliance of their Brian Eno days, they’ll hire these guys as a backing band.
Loud and Clear
(Doghouse)
What it is:
Chunky, retro power-pop. Kinda rockin’ but very, very "nothin’ new."
What it sounds like:
What pop music would sound like if Superdrag were progenitors.
The skinny:
These guys probably go into Matt Dillon’s state-of-rock rant in Singles ("Where is the ‘Iron Man’ of our generation?"), like, every other day.
Road To Flight
(Resin Records)
What it is:
Whirling Dervish-like intensity from this eclectic Baltimore polit-punk/new wave trio.
What it sounds like:
Judgement day at the illegal warehouse party (atop some surprisingly catchy songs).
The skinny:
The band claims no religious affiliation, but lead track "Mission From God" sums up their demeanor ("To blow you away with the sound I made"). Own this, if you can deal.
Know Your Enemy
(Virgin)
What it is:
Fidel Castro’s favorite rockers return with another collection of amped-up left wing anthems.
What it sounds like:
Marc Bolan meets Karl Marx.
The skinny:
Songs like "Let Robeson Sing" are fully stadium ready — if you can find enough anarchist U2 fans to fill a stadium.