ASS PONYS
Lohio (Checkered Past)
Reviewed by John Sekerka

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Though REM continues to aimlessly chug down the escarpment after an ill-timed derailment, there are very few takers for the vacated throne of intellectual artsy folk pop. The Ass Ponys just may be the little train that could take over. The latest record slips nicely between Reckoning and Fables, finding just the right balance of country tinged pop and penetrating lyrics. The Ass Ponys also know how to handle a hook. In the wrong hands, such an important device can be wasted, drowned out or, gasp, even abused, but The Ponys caress it, line it up, and let it rip like an old pair of Levis. "Last Night It Snowed" starts off as a delicate whisper before blasting into a blissful barrage of guitars. It is a catchy bit of rock and roll, short, simple, familiar and an irresistible opening. C'mon in.

© 2001 - John Sekerka