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biography - continued The band enjoyed rave reviews from publications such as the Bay Guardian, while SF scenesters began flocking to Enda's live shows, mesmerized by Valerie's hypnotic stage presence and the band's focused readings of their songs. Enda also earned fans through their unique vibe, an amalgamation of the group's far-ranging influences. Blackheart Procession, Weezer, and The Jesus and Mary Chain-apparently at distant corners of pop music's spectrum-equally captivate Valerie. This may be because the frontwoman's inspiration stems from a mood or a feeling, rather than from any particular band or flavor du jour. This inclusive mindset balances the black with the white, creating pensive grays-sometimes angry, often wounded, frequently hopeful, but always rife with genuine feeling. Grounding
such philosophical dichotomies, though, is simply a collection of
great songs. Vocal harmonies whisper in secret conversation, only
to dovetail and leap playfully the next moment. Guitars groan alternately
in agony and ecstasy, as Enda's rhythm section directs the band's
expressive dynamic, guiding the ebb and flow. The foursome's latest
songs demonstrate even more promise, poise, and power than ever;
the artful arrangements, fecund lyrics, and range of emotion will
shape an eagerly anticipated forthcoming album, set to turn heads
and make waves. --matthew
kalinowski |
