Customer Reviews

Planet of the Stereos

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4 star:		(1)
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I went 'Down Under' in March of 2001 to visit some friends in Sydeny who took us to a concert of an unknown (in the States anyway) band called "Lotel." Reluctantly, thinking this was some garage band I went with low expectations.

Much to my absolute amazement, literally, I was stunned by this bands energy, originality and ability. There were about 300 people at the show, so I had no idea they were even a 'signed' band with a record label. Sure enough they are, and have CDs you can buy too...

On to the CD - "Pop Song Saved My Life" is a great song that really gets the adreniline flowing, "Crucifix" has one of the most creative "main verses" I've ever heard, and "Teenager of the Year" is arguably one of the best songs in years in both melody and originality and it is worth buying the CD on this song's merit alone. There are other nuggets on here too, like "Fashion." Ever listen to one of those albums that didn't seem to have too much 'filler?' i.e. every song had something that would allow you to leave it on without cringing... This is one of those records.

Lotel is strong in the way they mix moderately heavy guitar with 60's sounding synthesizer in the background. The blend sounds totally unique and original. The lead singer's voice comes off sounding like a toned down and more melodic version of Radiohead, while the lead guitarist looks like Peter Garret (of Midnight Oil) so on stage they're a pretty odd combination.

Great energy and originality, I highly recommend this CD!

Lo-Tel's Planet of the Stereos spawned several hit singles down under, but I'm unsure how well-known the Sydney band are overseas.

The album is your classic pop-rock genre, featuring upbeat songs (like Pop Song or Hudson NY), slower 'ballads' (like the brilliant Teenager of the Year and the underrated An Open Letter) as well as some more esoteric tracks like Any Time You See Fit.

Generally i don't go for lighter stuff, im more into unwritten law, edgewater and finger eleven. however these guys are great; Crucifix, Hudson NY and Teenager of the Year are my favourites, though the others are all good too. Worth taking a look at.