1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Castanets are not afraid, June 13, 2010
Castanets, aka Ray Rapoza and company prove once again that they are not afraid to take musical risks. The fifth release from this San Diego/ New York/ the entire world/ band is as sonically progressive as First Light's Freeze and maintains the guttural urgency of Cathedral. Ray again shows no fear in using multiple instrument tracks including 80's keyboards to compliment his dry eerie vocals, reminiscent of Willie Nelson, especially The Red headed Stranger. The lyrics have been deepened by Rapoza's adventures on the road, constantly touring for well over 6 years. The lyrics are paradoxical, suggesting a neither optimistic of pessimistic worldview, but one based in authenticity and real life experiences. The instrumentation is considered, deeply focused, but overly not elaborate. The total mood created is unique and deserves to be heard in low light. This is a more mature effort than City of Refuge and is completely worth picking up, preferably on vinyl.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
![Texas Rose, The Thaw, And The Beasts [Vinyl]](http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51aS7sVW8sL._SL160_SL90_.jpg)
