Satsuma
Fang, 2020
8/10
If there’s one thing we can expect from a Life In A Blender record, it’s, well, to not have any expectations, cause there’s no telling what Don Rauf, Dave Moody and company are up to. Whether it’s punk or pop, each of their 10 studio records has left an indelible mark on fans, and Satsuma will likely follow suit, too.
“Vacancy For A Bluebird” starts the album with a punchy rhythm as the Colony Collapse Horns contribute playful brass in an opener that’s as creative and relevant as the Kurt Vonnegut book it’s inspired by, and “Soul Deliverer” follows with much emphasis on percussion as the bright brass and energetic landscape propels the tune into a festive, anthemic EP highlight.
The 2nd half of the listen is equally enjoyable, and includes the hypnotic and lush “A Party In The Drunken Forest”, where plenty of melody finds a place reside, while “When The Big Bell Calls” moves with a country spirit that’s as unpredictable as it is memorable. “The Ocean Is A Black And Rolling Tongue” finishes the listen on a very high note as darker textures enter alongside the outfit’s inimitable, multi-faceted version of rock.
Rauf is aligned with Dave Moody on cello/guitar, Al Houghton handling guitar and Mark Lerner, Ken Meyer and Rebecca Weiner contributing bass, drums and violin respectively, as the outfit cram countless ideas into this varied and accomplished effort. If you’re lucky enough to get a physical copy of the record, it comes with a 12 page book including eye catching art and, believe it or not, cocktail recipes.
Travels well with: Chris Butler- Got It Togehter! The Mommyheads- Soundtrack To The World’s End