The second album from Seattle four-piece Throw Me The Statue is essentially a feel-good pop record in the style of fellow American indie heroes Neutral Milk Hotel and Built to Spill (were NMH ever ‘feel-good’? – Ed.), with a bit of pop glamour and lo-fi hooks thrown in for measure.
Scott Reitherman, the band’s founder, writes subtle observational lyrics that blend in well with the upbeat music. But while filling a song with poetic lines about the complications of modern life to the beat of a symphonised and a catchy drum beat is interesting the first time, twelve songs of essentially the same thing might be a bit much for even the most patient listener.
‘Creaturesque’ works best when TMTS play it simple. ‘Ancestors’ and ‘Baby, You’re Bored’ feel like long-forgotten soundtracks to a carefree summer of lazing at the beach, trying to read Hamlet. However, far too often this collection suffers from a claustrophobic sense of overworked and overanalysed lyricism, which seem to be rushed through the – admittedly pleasant, if repetitive – carefree lo-fi grooves. Come the climax, the listener is left exhausted and confused.
Which is a shame, because TMTS obviously have something to offer – occasionally, elements of refreshing yet energetic soundscapes seem ready to break through, but never quite do. Reiherman exhibits the traits of a sensitive and talented writer in the making, too, so there’s plenty of scope for improvement next time round.
5/10
Words: Stephen Maughan
