80's Alternative Rock
Robert D. Peyton | New Orleans, LA USA | 03/24/2006
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Most people in the US are probably more familiar with Icicle Works' eponymous debut record from the airplay that the single "Whisper to a Scream" got here. For my money, this record is better. I believe the title refers to the fact that on this album the band moved toward the mainstream of 80's alternative rock music, increasing the volume and the energy. If that sounds like a bad thing to you, give a listen to "Understanding Jane," which remains one of my favorite songs from the decade. The rest of the record never quite matches the energy of that song, but it comes close on "Evangeline" and ballads like "Hope Springs Eternal" and "Up Here in the North of England." A great record, and one that deserves a place in your collection of 80's alternative pop/rock."