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The Vines
Vision Valley
EMI/Capitol
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Article
written by Bob M
Mar 30, 2006.
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“Brevity is the soul of wit” we’re reminded by ye olde Will Shakespeare. That being the case, one might think Vision Valley is in the running for Album Possessing Greatest Wit 2006. At just over 30 minutes, one wonders if this is actually a complete album or a truly brilliant sense of musical economy.
You’re given a two-minute memorandum on what to expect from this album right off the bat. From the churning guitars to Craig Nicholls rasping vocals, “Anysound” leaves no doubt that this is The Vines. Little has changed from previous efforts, sonically; the tried and true formula seems the rule, with distortion-laden guitars, bashing drums and the often-sneering Nicholls. With rare exceptions, this is an unremarkable garage rock album, one that will certainly provide material to tour on but little in the way of musical improvement or growth. While it’s not a requirement to make hard left turns after each record, it’s certainly a great deal more fun when a band at least tries to push themselves.
Make no mistake, there are moments of musical enjoyment to be had on the album. The astoundingly long “Take Me Back” (clocking in at an impressive 2:42) and “Going Gone” (again, stretched to a staggering 2:44) both showcase a band capable of crafting melodic, soaring songs, both of which seem reminiscent of mellower Supergrass tracks. The album closer, “Spaceship,” rolls about for over 6 minutes and seems the band’s attempt to create an opus; in most regards, it works quite well. However, while it’s a fine effort, it does get on a bit, plodding away about two minutes too long.
All kidding about song lengths aside, there’s something to be said for tight, well-crafted rock tunes that don’t stretch on eternally. “Fuck Yeh,” a Stooges-style rocker, and “Futuretarded,” a devilishly catchy stomper, are both highly efficient and effective little ditties that pound around for under two minutes, leaving a distinct impression that economy is oftentimes preferable to excess.
All that said, it’s a mediocre rock record with a few high points, but certainly not one to change any opinions of The Vines or the world in any way.
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