THE MONTGOMERY CLIFFS
The Montgomery Cliffs (RPM USA)
Reviewed by DJ Johnson

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Ya know, I'm as guilty as any reviewer of comparing bands. "Oh, the new one sounds a lot like ELO meets The Archies with Arthur Brown behind the sound board." We all do it. I've been hearing this new Montgomery Cliffs CD was going to bring bands like The Jam and The Records to mind, but to be honest, I don't hear it. And since The Montgomery Cliffs change from record to record, I can't really pin it totally on them, either. All I can tell you is that their self-titled (4th) release is a great slice of power pop loaded with concise songwriting, walls of guitars and an infectious energy. Interesting lyrical ideas, too, such as "once in a while you come around like some movie star who just came to town with collagen lips and silicone breasts, and just like our love it's all make believe" to keep your ears focused on the speakers. With all the high energy power a'poppin', and gems like "Wednesday Girl" grabbing the attention, make sure you don't miss the beautifully sultry "Hooked Again," a bleary-eyed stumble across the strings of an acoustic guitar while the heart pours out. The album closes on a powerful note and a few sharp hooks with "She Said," just one of at least three song here that would be radio bound in a just world. As Joey Salvia (bass/vocals) continues his transition to world class songwriter, The Montgomery Cliffs' keep pace. This is a great band, and if you haven't heard them, this is the place to start. My usual tendency is to say start at the beginning. Start here and get the rest once you're hooked. This is one fine album. [www.themontgomerycliffs.com]

© 2001 - DJ Johnson