Splendor Bin will punish you and you will like it. Well, they'll at least scold you strongly, admonish you mightily, tell your mom. You get the idea. Beautifully recorded by Mr. Steve Albini, this record has sonic heft to let the band's strong songwriting and inspired playing shine brightly. Hard rock for thinking people. It's about damn time. [Todd Bennington]
The abscence of a music scene on campus was the first thing that struck me upon my arrival to Penn. However, one group has managed to step out of the long shadow of Penn and is poised to enter the national spotlight. Splendor bin, an innovative group of four alumni, has just released its debut album, "Stealth", which places the band on the forefront of musical evolution. Steve Albini, renowned for his work with PJ Harvey, the Pixies, and Nirvana, recorded the album and deftly captures in the studio the amazing assault of the band's live show.
Splendor bin's infectious math rock dazzles upon first listen. Jason McKibben's incredible drumming and Nyles Lannon's nimble basslines comprise a formidable rhythm section which flexes its muscle on "Stealth". Bill Elliott's technical guitar skill and his mastery of effects pedals shine through on the album, and Kwame Johnson's vocals are brought to the front of the mix and it's amazing what he's actually saying.Unlike many bands today who wear their influences on the sleeves, Splendor bin has managed to forge a sound all its own. Sure they have their influences. You can hear Jawbox in the drumwork, and the guitars sound somewhat inspired by the Archers of Loaf and Unwound.
But for all the band's technical prowess, it is the songs that make "Stealth" a truly great work. These are sophisticated songs for musically-sophisticated people. Whether it's the sheer beauty of "The Coolest Town," the energy of "Size Nines," or the catchiness of "Tinted," the songs show a young band with an uncanny grasp of songwriting. It is, however, "Coronation Day" that is the highlight of the album. A constantly building and evolving seven-minute epic, it is a magnificent song which perfectly showcases the band's extraordinary talent.While West Philly isn'y likely to be mentioned in the same breath as Chapel Hill any time soon, Splendor bin's outstanding debut is a good start. [Jake Wilson]
A little out of step for N.O.R.C., only because I can't hear any accoustic. Two swirling space jams here, that were definitely recorded in Neri's studio (almost reeks of early Temple of Bon Matin). With a big full sound, the lyrics to 'The Orange Line' are inspired by stops on Philadelphia's Orange subway line- aka The Broad Street Line. Both tunes are heavy on the bass distortion and guitar delay. 'Magpie ' ain't got no lyrics. These songs dig right in!
Splendorbin, "Strasserland/Precipice" (Static) Splendorbin's initial single diligently mixes drums high, vocals low, and guitars in the chewy middle. The B-side gathers momentum in a swirling sea of guitars. By definition, a "Precipice" is a "very steep cliff," offering a good description of this coily winner. These guys may have something to say. Stay tuned. (JF)
Splendorbin: Strasserland/Precipice (Static 7"). The only two bands I can think of as I listen to this 7" are 1980 Cure and 1990 Jawbox. If that sounds like an odd combo, rest assured this Philadelphia quartet can pull it off without a hitch. Good, solid and tight musicianship. (P.O. Box 40236; Philadelphia, PA 19106)
Splendor Bin "Strasserland" (Static Records)
This is the first release from this Philly band and, wow! The first thing you
notice is the energy. The two cuts offered here don't stop for even a
second to allow you to catch your breath. But don't get the idea that
Splendor Bin is some kind of hardcore or thrash outfit -- they're far
from it. The speed of their songs is painted by melodic, textured,
acrobatic guitars and vocal harmonies. The music, harmonic at one point
and off-key at another, flows along smoothly without flinching at
rhythmic changes and solos.
