Apparently the title of Les Georges Leningrad's latest translates to "Two Hot Dogs Mustard Cabbage." Whatever. I don't actually own this record. I downloaded it, and for some reason, the titles are different than what how the group's website lists them. I don't feel shame for downloading, but I'd like to state that I do regret not having this on (an official) CD, as it's probably the most interesting album I've heard this year and has warranted quite a few listens since I first heard it.
I didn't know anything about this band upon first listen and still don't. An acquaintance introduced them to me during a bout in which I proclaimed I was looking for anything new, different - anything that would surprise me, preferably something with unintelligible vocals/lyrics. I'm sure this music has been done before, maybe better - whatever, I can't download the entirety of music history into my mind this very instant so I'm just relaying my reaction as it came. The first track, titled, "Caamcknenechn" is a nice opener for the album. It's not the typical attention grabber. It's very downplayed and moody. I get a bluesy/jazzish (pardon my ignorance as to which style is more accurate) vibe; I can see it performed in a vacant, smoke-filled bar room with red lighting. The singing is foggy and smothered sounding. The accompanying instruments provide a redundant backdrop that compliments the modulated vocals nicely. Who knows what's being said? I like that.
"Lollipop Lady" is track deux (see how I did that?). It picks the record up with wailing female vocals and distorted guitars. I don't have much to say about this one. I like the attitude and general chaos of the music. Maybe they're going for shock value-- attempting to violate listeners with unpredictability; maybe they want to even menace or challenge Deerhoof enthusiasts? I don't know, but I like that they manage to make something listenable, engaging and nearly endearing out of what is caterwaul vocalizations, mechanistic interjections and repetitive beats. "Georges V" is my favorite, which involves all three of the above characteristics and forms what I can only describe as an audio temper tantrum. "Didi Extra" sounds like more insane ramblings against the soundtrack to Pacman. "Constantinople" is an interpretation of the Residents song of the same name.
This music feels a little gimmicky. You're likely to get into it if you jumped onto the Arab On Radar bandwagon back in 2002 (but not if you smirked at those who did). Each track has its equal share of distortion, grating vocals, and absurdist lyrics, and even while this entire album may be an attempt at anti-music, it comes off as rather likeable.
Oh, here's an fun fact: the band is from Montreal.
