[BEST NEW MUSIC]
I figured I would just review Superchunk’s two 2009 releases together. Leaves In The Gutter is an EP while Crossed Wires is a 7″. All told there are six new Superchunk songs combined on the band’s first two proper releases of new material since 2001’s excellent Here’s To Shutting Up. Leaves In The Gutter would seem to imply this is material that has been left around throughout the years but you would never know it by the quality of the songs.
Superchunk’s journey is a remarkable one. Fast, raw pop/punk band matures into a charming indie rock band. To say the band aged gracefully would probably be an understatement. It is a testament to the band’s songwriting that they kept so much of their fanbase intact despite the musical evolution. But, as with many bands who evolve, so do their listeners right along with them. For the most part, that seemed to happen gradually with Superchunk and their fanbase. I know it did with me at least.
Yet, there is nothing like falling in love with a band for the first time and that is why these songs sound so exhilarating to this old set of jaded ears. I can remember hearing “Slack Motherfucker” in the early nineties as my first introduction to Superchunk; And while nothing may ever touch the reckless abandon and joy of that first remembrance, Leaves In The Gutter and Crossed Wires bring the nostalgia in waves and come close to touching that initial spark.
Most striking and refreshing of all is the good feelings Superchunk exude on these songs. Propulsive, biting and unmistakably Superchunk, the band sounds as though they are completely re-energized after an eight year hiatus. There is an air of excitement and youthfulness to the band that we haven’t heard in quite some time. It’s good to have you back Superchunk.
Label: Merge
Superchunk “Learned To Surf”
www.myspace.com/superchunkmusic
