XYZR_KX
Falls off the Curb, Chump Style (Actually, Records)

Normally I ignore the promo blurbs found on an artist's web site, but I want to take this one head on. "XYZR_KX (pronounced 'Scissor Kicks') is Jon Monteverde, Chicago-based Chinese-Filipino indie-rock/electro-pop wunderkind. From his start as the drummer for the dissonant rockers What Now My Love, he has shown a remarkably mature musicality inherent in his work. With his XYZR_KX project, Monteverde redefines the boundaries of the traditional pop song by simultaneously incorporating hushed vocals, serrated guitars, and chaotic beats." Translation: "Jon (by using his street-tag stylee band name) has been making music that no one wants to bother to call him on. We weren't sure what to say about his C64-style beats, poorly recorded vocals and excessively emotional delivery so we figured 'mature musicality' would deflect criticism. We've managed to put critics on their heels by declaring his 'passion' and 'vulnerability' so stick to the indie party line and give this guy a big bear hug, will ya?" Well, I refuse to play that game. This is weak. This is high school party-weak. This is 'needs physical therapy to build up some muscle mass after weeks of bed rest weak.' OK, maybe it isn't THAT weak but it ain't strong. (The ten-minute strum and beat box opus "Road" isn't terrible.) Seriously, the only difference between this CD and the guys who play the open mic nights at your local pub is a sequencer and some extra studio chops. At least the guy at open mic night has less to drag offstage when everyone starts yelling at him. Don't worry; he'll still get the sensitive girls who are dying to sleep with him so they'll be on his next album. Ah, what do I know, I'm a married guy in his 30's. I have no idea what it takes to get laid these days. --Boon Sheridan

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