CELIBATE RIFLES
A Mid-Stream of Consciousness (Real-O-Mind)
Reviewed by Alan Wright

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The first new Rifles CD since 1996's semi-acoustic "unplugged" CD On The Quiet, and the first all-new material since the '94 album Spaceman In A Silver Suit, features the return of original bassist Michael Courvet who was in the band from 1987-90. And what a corker it is! Possibly their best release since 1987's Roman Beach Party, though as a huge Rifles fan I can't say I've ever disliked anything they've done, I just like some more than others. But, this new one really kicks it out. "Storm," "I Shoulda," and "Wake Up" all rock like no tomorrow. They easily mix it up with outright rockers and slower, dark ballad material. Real-O-Mind got the rights to this shortly after its Aussie release, and added three bonus track, too: covers of "Child of the Moon" (Rolling Stones), "I Will Dare" (Replacements) and "Journey By Sledge" (Visitors) that are real fine versions.

© 2003 - Alan Wright