GRIEFBIRDS
Paper Radio (Planetary)
Reviewed by Shaun Dale

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Coby Batty and Paul Watson, collectively the GriefBirds, have either got illustrious backgrounds or checkered pasts, depending on your perspective. With resumes that include service with John Zorn, the Fugs, Sparklehorse, Dirtball, the Orthotonics and the Utulating Mummies, they've done their time on the performing and recording scenes for decades, and have ended up with each other. That seems to suit them just fine, and it works out great for the audience, because their talents and sensibilities seem to be remarkably complementary.

The music on Paper Radio is simple, slightly folky, cabaret pop, heavy on waltzes and ballads, but the lyrics tend toward a dark side that belies the light melodies and flat affect delivery. It's pop music for literate audiences, who want to bob their heads to a spiffy tune even if the world isn't made of spun sugar and sweet dreams. And it's great.

Track List:

Paper Radio * Yours * There Is A Wolf * Enchanted * Song Of The Love * That Dark Shape * Nothing For Love * Handle With Care * Wonderful Life? * Wievel * Move Close * Songs Inside

© 2001 - Shaun Dale