Wow
01/17/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This album is one that I would not want to miss. It strikes a chord in me every time I listen. Hope to hear more from this incredible artist."
"Mystics Anonymous" delivers something for everyone
12/05/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I knew Jeff Steblea's last band, "Go Figure," from college (and LOVED them), so I'm very excited to see his new work. It's very different than his "Go Figure" days (which was a sort of infectious funk thing, very danceable)... Steblea has dug deeply with this album, and delivers a much more personal musical experience. It's one of those albums in which anyone can find something they like... there are very melodic songs ("Song of Friends," for example), and very catchy pop tunes ("Megan G."). "Dear Old Mr. Hand" is an offbeat tune that reminds me of Robyn Hitchcock and the Beatles. There's a really trippy tune at the end ("Lollipop Virgin") with some spoken word stuff that I really like. Some of the refrains really stick with you, like the great chorus in "Lost at Home" and parts of "Vivian Line." Although "Mystics Anonymous" is very different from Steblea's last band, it's still marked by Steblea's characteristically intelligent, interesting lyrics. I think my favorite song is "Megan G.," which is at once a great pop tune and an engaging story. Some of this album reminds me of Mark Eitzel's confessional lyricism, especially in songs like "The Rain Comes Down." Take a listen for yourself and see what your favorite song is! (And if Steblea ever decides to offer his "Go Figure" stuff here, definitely check that out as well!)"