THE PINK MOUNTAINTOPS
self-titled (Scratch)
Reviewed by John Sekerka

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Stephen McBean doesn't waste any time confusing and down right confounding, plowing right in with "Bad Boogie Ballin' ", a blippy, sterile synth limp noodle of a tune delivered with deadpanned vocals and anti orgasmic robotic groans that betray the redneck title. And believe it or not, it gets even better! Folks familiar with McBean's much lauded though chiefly ignored outfit Jerk With a Bomb will come prepared to be toyed with. And whether it's the elegant and mesmerizing ballad "I (fuck) Mountains", or the sensational ribald rock action of "Sweet '69" where he pilfers directly from Iggy Pop without credit, or the chirpy Velvety Undergroundy take on Joy Division's "Atmosphere" (credited this time), McBean proves to be more than just a clever little prankster, but a true master of music ceremonies. Hoo-rah!

© 2004 - John Sekerka