SOUNDTRACK OF OUR LIVES
Origin Vol.1 (Telegram/Warners)
Reviewed by John Sekerka

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The supposed leaders of the Swedish rock invasion, Soundtrack (as they are known everywhere but here) are spinning their collective wheels on album four. But it's a good spin, of the rpm variety. Every meticulously crafted tune builds like a classic radio rock staple, balancing big meaty hooks with irresistible pop bounciness. But on a few occasions, just when they need to take it to the next level, second gear, up a notch, you know, deliver the big boom of audio orgasmic ecstasy - they fall short. Shame since few bands out there have their impeccable gift of swagger, melody, and musicianship. 'Tis a tricky proposition: to deliver visceral, primal rock that brims with immediacy, while sneaking in complicated studio flourishes. At least someone is still attempting the lost art of adventurous rock and roll, the kind that requires a bit of listening time to develop, instead of gulp-down fast food pap pop.

© 2005 - John Sekerka