Ex-Norwegian
(Dying Van Gogh Records)
What's in a name? Potentially plenty when a band dubs itself Ex-Norwegian and there's not a Scandinavian expatriate in the bunch. Admittedly though, it's a considerably better handle than the moniker given its predecessor, the absolutely incongruous Father Bloopy. Fortunately, there's reason enough to forgive the band's lynchpin, Roger Houdaille for his strange choice in nom de plumes; whatever his shortcomings in that regard, it doesn't diminish his melodic prowess or his ability to inspire a rousing performance from his collaborators. Consequently, this new trio - Houdaille (vocals, guitar, mellotron, synths), Carolina Souto (bass) and Arturo Garcia (drums, percussion, vocals) - make amends with a stirring debut that's chock full of exuberant, exhilarating performances and a unerring pop sensibility that's both brash and irresistible.
In truth, Standby isn't so much a variation from Houdaille's Father Bloopy guise as it is a further affirmation of his melodic abilities, newly bolstered by an assertive stance and a modern rock regimen. The staccato rhythms of "Fujeira In My Dreams," the unrelenting pace of "Pow3full" and the steady stomp and surge of "Dance Trance Pants" all testify to the band's revved up delivery, confidence and poise. What's equally impressive is Ex-Norwegian's ability to flirt with radio-ready possibilities, be it with the pop-perfect "Sad Wonder," the buoyant refrains of "Fresh Pit" or the percolating "Add Vice," which, coincidentally or not, retraces the sound of the soul classic "What Becomes of the Broken Hearted." So no matter what name they paste above the marquee, Standby is nothing less than a standout.
Standout Tracks: "Add Vice," "Sad
Wonder" LEE ZIMMERMAN
