In the words of Chris Ballew--the former frontman of short-lived bubble-grunge kingpins The Presidents of the United States--he "got finished being a rock star" and decided to return to his basement-pop roots. Ballew actua... more »lly recorded the whole 13-song set on his own, but you won't find his name anywhere on the disc, which is credited to a motley crew of stuffed animals led by a worn-looking giraffe. In terms of content, nothing here would have sounded entirely out of place on a Presidents record; songs range from silly ("Brain on Yer Tung") to sillier ("Chocolate Dimension") to silliest ("Lonely Chicken"). Don't expect the weirdo austerity of the Presidents, though: There are enough geegaws and doodads in the margins of the Giraffes' songs to keep lo-fi technophiles entranced for hours. --David Sprague« less
In the words of Chris Ballew--the former frontman of short-lived bubble-grunge kingpins The Presidents of the United States--he "got finished being a rock star" and decided to return to his basement-pop roots. Ballew actually recorded the whole 13-song set on his own, but you won't find his name anywhere on the disc, which is credited to a motley crew of stuffed animals led by a worn-looking giraffe. In terms of content, nothing here would have sounded entirely out of place on a Presidents record; songs range from silly ("Brain on Yer Tung") to sillier ("Chocolate Dimension") to silliest ("Lonely Chicken"). Don't expect the weirdo austerity of the Presidents, though: There are enough geegaws and doodads in the margins of the Giraffes' songs to keep lo-fi technophiles entranced for hours. --David Sprague
CD Reviews
Inside each animal is a prize...
11/20/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This album is totally addicting. Keep listening and you'll keep listening. For just goofing around in your basement- this guy has much to offer in the way of lyrics and music. The melodies are intriguing and loaded with hooks. The lyrics are hilarious and at the same time, they touch some "private" places."
The Giraffes soothe the soul with chocalate dreams
11/03/1998
(5 out of 5 stars)
"With much music being written in a cloud of angst and rage, it is refreshing to hear something so pure and happy as that of the The Giraffes. Goofy, yes. Boring, no. This album takes me back to my childhood of Sesame Street and stuffed animals, while making me want to dance about like a fool. I think the album embodies much of the wit of the Presidents of the United States. Granted I am less versed in their work, they strike a chord on my funny bone. For people who want a change from harsh guitar and repitative lyrics try the album. I think its worth whatever money and can be listen to many times. I personally have "Lonely Chicken" as a greeting on my answering machine and you should too. If they ever go on tour, which is highly unlikely, check them out as well. Cheers, Ian"
This is a must-have for any PUSA fans.
frog78@hotmail.com | Topanga, California | 07/07/1998
(5 out of 5 stars)
"An extra treat for those PUSA fans upset by the breakup, The Giraffes is a cute band comprised of six of Chris Ballew's childhood stuffed animals. Chickey plays the drums, Giraffe the lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Yoko Glick the piano, organ and clavinette, Munkey Jr. the horns and strings, Munkey Sr, the lead vibratto and wah-wah guitar and Barry Lowe the basitar. Actually, it is just Chris Ballew in his basement. But it is a feather plucking dream come true to anyone who loves PUSA's crazy lyrics and silly songs. If you are like me, you'll love it! I especially recommend "Lonely Chicken" and "Ghost of a Bad Friend.""
Very creative; full of layered sounds and experimentation.
frog78@hotmail.com | 06/29/1998
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I like this album mostly because it is fun, and it sounds like the artist had a wonderful time creating it. I can hear the sound of The Presidents of the United States of America, but 13 Other Dimensions is mellower than their three albums. It is full of interesting subtlties and unexpected sounds. Brain on Yer Tongue and Little Champion are especially energetic and easy to listen to."
Track Listings (13) - Disc #1