THE LADIES – They Mean Us

Artist: THE LADIES
Album: They Mean Us
Label: Temporary Residence

A match made in math-rock heaven, The Ladies are a new duo comprised of pseudo-gorilla drummer god Zach Hill of Hella and math-pop songsmith Rob Crow of Pinback. While Mr. Hill is the virtuoso and the most obvious upon hearing what exactly his contribution is with his frantic beatings and rolls and clashing of cymbals (and who might put anyone off this album who doesn’t know him better), it is Crow’s knack for good intricate melodies that keeps it all together, letting the weird but wonderful world that they have created (and definitely patented) exist in harmony. With their powers combined they exceed expectations on “They Mean us”, with their chemistry over flowing to create a unique and truly alternative pop record. You can’t imagine anything else like this. It’s an absolutely exhilarating listening experience, from off-kilter meanderings to full-blown psych freak-outs (or to quote accurately the last song name instead, a “Mandatory Psych Freakout”). Fans of both would unanimously approve and the appreciative newcomers would want to look into their respective bands. ~ Reviewer: Riaan (Canned Applause)