Customer Reviews

Paleophonic

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This is a reissue of the 1998 Pynotic release of the same name, adding two bonus tracks to the original and providing the distribution (courtesy of Varese Sarabande and its corporate parent) it deserves.

Coming after such a long band dormancy, one might have expected a nostalgic rehash that failed to capture the youthful exuberance of the Rubinoos' original 1970s power pop. Such expectations of failure, however, are completely dashed by this treasure.

Unlike so many regroupings, The Rubinoos have retained every bit of their original charm, and expanded it with a broader musical pallate and a maturing view of the world. Jon Rubin's voice is as expressive as ever, the harmonies just as tight and inventive, and Tommy Dunbar's songs as good (or better!) than those of 20 years ago.

If you loved the Rubinoos original unabashed power-pop, you're sure to love their latest. If you're new to the band, but have fallen for the works of The Raspberries, Big Star, Beatles or Beach Boys, you're sure to love The Rubinoos.

I really like this record. AMNESIA is as good as a Power Pop record could be. There are just too many dull spots. SURF TREK is very cool with some nice vocals. Over all it's a great record. Just program out the slow songs.

The Rubinoos, after a misguided album (Party of Two) produced by Todd Rundgren, a couple of awesome rarities collections, and the Vox Pop side project (which is a must-hear), the Rubinoos come bouncing back with this ballad-heavy collection of pure pop. A diverse album that goes from heavy Who-styled rockers to 40's AM radio to traditional power pop, it occasionally makes you reach for the skip button on the CD player. Fortunately there's enough cool tracks to make it a keeper.

Best tracks:
"Amnesia" - WOW! One of the best all time 'Noos tracks, this is an A+++ pop rocker with a ripping solo and vocals that prove 20 years hasn't fazed Rubin's voice at all. Killer chorus!
"Early Winter" - Ballad with an uptempo chorus that sticks in your brain forever
"Perfect Stranger" - Could fit right in with those great 1950's prom ballads - an "Earth angel" for the 1990's.
"No More Where She Came From" - Ultra-commercial arrangement for a should-have-been hit.

"Cruisin' Music" - Top notch Raspberries cover that trumps the original because of the great production.

Welcome back Rubinoos. Some very good stuff here, although as others have said, a few tracks I skip right past. If you like the Rubinoos you will definitely like this album. If you like good rock roll from a versatile rock and roll bank, you'll like this. If you're tired of hearing the same stuff everyday get the Rubinoos. They are refreshing.