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TAGGART
"L'Maskin"
(Self-released; 2018)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
If you read my previous review of a Taggart CD ("Parts of My Bicycle are Made of Chrome," below), you'll know that I was a little confused by the band. That particular CD was a little too much over the place for me, although I did admire the band's ability to explore.
Well, now here comes "L'Maskin," seventeen years after the last CD I reviewed, and I'm happy to report that Taggart has found their focus. "L'Maskin" is a much more even record than "Parts ..." was. The music is tigher, the vocals are stronger, the lyrics are smarter.
That doesn't mean the band has lost their ability to surprise. Although "L'Maskin" is chock full of solid guitar rockers, occasionally that guitar still gets a little punky (as on track #2, "Stock,") or a little rock'n'roll, Rolling Stones-funky (as on "Infinite Space" or "Shattered Leaves.") And I really liked the slow burn of "Nutso."
I don't know the history of Taggart from 2001 to 2018 but I can tell you this: the band learned a lot in those seventeen years and the proof is in the pudding of "L'Maskin."
For more info, check out http://www.taggartrocks.com.
"Parts of My Bicycle are Made of
Chrome"
(Face Down Records; 2001)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
Based on the interestingly-titled "Parts of My Bicycle are Made of Chrome" Taggart are a band who are hard to put a finger on. The first track, "Lifeboat" reminds you of Cheap Trick. You know, that solid hard rock with a pop sensibility. But then track two comes along, "Weekend Politics," and things get a little more alternative. By the time track 3 comes around, the punky-ballad "Chelsea," all bets are off.
But I guess that's a good thing if you're looking for a band that colors outside of the lines. "Parts of My Bicycle are Made of Chrome" is an always-surprising listen. You never know what to expect from track to track. But that also makes things a little uneven as well. Taggart switch styles often, someetimes right in the middle of a song, and it can be a little disconcerting.
My favorite track would be "Heavy Pedal" which features a menacing guitar with Kurt Cobain-like vocals. Again, it's another suprise on an album that wanders through styles from Cheap Trick to The Clash to Nirvana but I'll give Taggart this much: At least they're consistent in their variety.
For more info, check out http://www.taggartrocks.com.
Rating Guide:
A classic. This record will kick your ass.
Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.
So-so. You've heard better.
Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.
Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.
Copyright © 2019 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights reserved.
