Shellac - At Action Park (1994) and Terraform (1998)

Shellac is a minimalist post-punk band featuring Steve Albini (guitar/vocals), Bob Weston (bass/vocals) and Todd Trainer (drums). The group was formed in 1992 in Evanston, Illinois, and is sometimes also grouped under the math rock genre. They have a distinct sound based on unusual and urgent time signatures, repetitive heavy rhythms, an angular guitar sound and Albini's surreal, bitingly sarcastic songwriting. Songs typically do not have traditional verse/chorus structure and the arrangements are sparse, to the point where some describe them as 'amelodic'. The band prefers the intimacy of smaller clubs and appearances are sporadic. I saw them live about ten years ago and they are very impressive, especially since you get to see Albini's spastic 'adhd' way of handling his guitar! Albini prefers a very clean, analogue recording sound with little or no overdubbing and is meticulous about microphone placings and equipment - this is reflected in Shellac's no nonsense approach to their own music, both in the studio and live. (Mostly taken from wikipedia entry)

At Action Park (1994)
Judging by the sleeve the band is really called 'Shellac of North America' and the album Shellac at Action Park. As the 1994 debut of Steve Albini's latest band, the guitarist and recording engineer further refined the lean, scrappy sound he developed in the 80s with Big Black and Rapeman. Previously the band released a few seven-inch 45s. The sound of all the instruments is crisp and delightful to hear, so you can easily crank this way up. Add to the flawless production minimalist rock that is powerful and abstract and you've got something really special. If you have never heard Shellac, this is definitely where to start. All time classic, probably, and highly recommended if you enjoy rock music.

Tracks

1. My Black Ass (3:00)
2. Pull The Cup (4:12)
3. Admiral, The (2:21)
4. Crow (4:47)
5. Song Of The Minerals (2:24)
6. Minute, A (3:40)
7. Idea Of North, The (3:42
8. Dog And Pony Show (3:59
9. Boche's Dick (1:38
10. Il Porno Star (5:14)
    
Total time: 36:57

Shellac_At_Action_Park_256_vbr.rar


Terraform (1998)
Overally the sparse, abstract style of this album is similar to At Action Park. However, it does demand more from the listener, perhaps because the minimalist strain and use of repetition are taken much further. It took me a while to get properly adjusted to this one, especially since I only knew their debut. It doesn't achieve the intensity of At Action Park, but all the tracks are still very good minimalist rock. The opening track is one of their most interesting (some say boring or too repetitive) tracks I know.

Tracks

1. Didn't We Deserve A Look At You The Way You Really Are (12:19)
2. This Is A Picture (2:30)
3. Disgrace (2:41)
4. Mothpiece (4:44)
5. Canada (2:21)
6. Rush Job (2:17)
7. House Full Of Garbage (7:36)
8. Copper (1:48)
   
Total time: 36:16

Shellac_Terraform_256_vbr.rar

posted by Paxjorge @ Thursday, April 06, 2006