A stunning sophomore release that's anything but sophomoric!
Charlie Peterson | Minneapolis, MN USA | 06/27/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Five years after they unleashed their tremendous eponymous debut CD on the citizens of Minneapolis, and netizens around the country, local rock quartet Terramara have crafted a must-hear second act in which they will proceed to rock the world.
Time, it seems, has had the same effect on Terramara as it would a fine wine: the elements remain intact, yet there's a heightened definition, a sweeter taste. Granted, their first disc was damn sweet to begin with; an improvement on that simply must be experienced to be fully comprehended. That said, one's senses are left in a state of sizzling satisfaction after hearing this disc from top to bottom.
The album begins with keyboardist/lead vocalist Rob Meany meandering upon his Wurlitzer, just before the groove kicks in, and we're off and "Running Down The Avenue". It's clear from the very beginning that nobody in this band is hiding behind production noise or effects pedals--any such tools are used in a bold, educated way. It's pure and unfiltered, the beautiful kind of record where every note is intentional and unashamed, harkening to the pristine Aja/Gaucho era of Steely Dan. With a record like this, it's very clear who's in the driver's seat...and it ain't the listener. We are simply along for the ride.
The songs that unfold through this ride take us through the bitter annals of love--in the form of a narcissistic ex-girlfriend ("Crying Shame"), unresolved questions and truths ("Goodbye"), accountability ("Smoke & Mirrors", featuring a shattering solo by guitarist Karl Koopmann), attempts at recapturing the essence of love ("Black & Grey"), and even the digital realm ("Virtual Lisa")--while occasionally waxing philosophical on domestic issues ("Invisible People"), and guidance and wisdom ("Outrunning Headlights"). All the while, these tales are bathed in a kind of aural pheromone, awash in beautifully-orchestrated horns, background vocals, vintage keyboards and dexterous virtuosity on all stringed instruments involved (during a recent live performance, bassist Tom Larson could be seen nimbly adjusting his bass cabinet's tone with one hand, while maintaining the deep, driving pocket essential for "Rise & Fall" with the other).
These fourteen songs (thirteen, if you pair the penultimate title track with its denouement counterpart) possess the ability to stimulate the synapses in fresh, surprising ways without being too cerebral. In this fashion, Terramara have joined the ranks of a few top-caliber bands and artists who take their musicality to a point beyond perfection--ending up with a record chock full of intense detail, meticulously-applied theory, hours of thoughtful production...all the qualities that, when heard, will draw grins from the most discriminating of musicians. And yet, it's an accessible record for the masses, too. It's the best of both worlds.
Arriving at a balance like that sounds much, much easier than it is. But it's very clear with "Four Blocks To Hennepin" that Terramara have landed there with style to spare--and without breaking a sweat.
"
A Pop Music Epiphany
SDC | Maryland | 03/29/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Well-crafted, intelligent pop songs--like a satisfying collection of short stories. Transcends today's disposable cd format and recalls a time when good music deserved being pressed into vinyl."
A Triumph
Daniel G. Moir | Eden Prairie, MN USA | 06/13/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is the real deal. In the past I have read much about how Terramara is Steely Dan influenced, etc. While this may be a good place to start, it is not the best description. You can hear a diverse range of influences that come together to form something truly unique. With this record, Terramara truly comes into their own and delivers the first truly great record of 2005. The songwriting is complex, tuneful, accessable and solid throughout. When you have material this strong to start with, the players need to be especially able to hit the mark. The members of Terramara easily rise to the task. Guitar textures (not to mention solos) by Karl Koopmann are imaginitive and expressive. A true pleasure to hear a player with this level of taste and style. The drumwork by Dave Thomas is so incredibly in the pocket it is not to be missed. The groove laid down with Bassist Erik Pedersen is NOT TO BE MISSED. Pedersen is so tight, yet funky, it holds everything together. Singer/Keyboardist/Songwriter Rob Meany is a MAJOR talent. His material is what drives this band. Influences seem to include Sting (check out Thomas' "Copeland-like" moves during "Invisible People"), Howard Jones, 3rd Matinee and Steve Winwood. "Crying Shame" recalls Blood, Sweat & Tear's "Spinning Wheel" but retains an individuality all it's own. It is honestly difficult for me to say which song is my favourite as it seems to change by day. For me, this is the sign of a truly exceptional album. Rarely does one find a album that is this consistant throughout. It starts on a high point with "Running Down The Avenue" and continues that level throughout. This is NOT the "new Steely Dan." This IS the new Terramara. A gifted, fierce and soulful sound that I consider myself lucky to have heard. It is my hope that you will be as lucky as well... Don't miss this one!"
Track Listings (13) - Disc #1