Search - Ruby Vileos :: The King Is Dead

Review: "Local trio Ruby Vileos have released their debut album, The King Is Dead, one of the best local CDs to hit the streets in 2001 so far. The relatively new group is led by singer/guitarist Ali Edwards (formerly of '90s rockers Snaggletooth) and rounded out by Ass Ponys Dave Morrison (drums, keys) and Bill Alletzhauser (guitar).

Initially, the most grabbing element of Ruby's sound is Edwards' striking vocal style and range. But the group works together to make the tracks lush and often hypnotic, crafting subtle layers of keyboard and sample quirks and brash guitar riffs. To top it off, the songs exhibit an impressive Pop flair and the textures dance gracefully with irresistible melodies. The music's experimental qualities never overwhelm the actual heart of the song, which is refreshing. Highlights abound, but some of the standouts on the nine-track set include the upbeat, bouncy "Big Gun," the spine-tingling soul of "Un-Making Friends," and exasperated sonic sigh of "The King Is Dead." Just fantastic stuff." -- Mike Breen, [Cincinnati] CITY BEAT, 2001