“Backed Out on the…” – Kevin Drew
(Words/music: Kevin Drew, available on Spirit If…, Arts & Crafts 2007)
Dinosaur Jr wasn’t the first band I thought of when I heard Broken Social Scene. Sure, both bands love distorted lead guitar lines, but Broken Social Scene’s larger than life songs and their affinity for shifting genres seems much different than Dinosaur Jr. While efficient songwriting and the ability to make a power trio sound overwhelming are Dinosaur’s strongest points, many of Broken Social Scene’s songs seem aimless by comparison. While the band pulls off a sort of Dinosaur Jr homage on “Almost Crimes,” it’s part of You Forgot It in People’s alternative rock kaleidoscope. It was only when Broken Social Scene started inviting J. Mascis on stage at gigs (appropriately, to tear through “Almost Crimes”) that the connection seemed more relevant.
On his solo album (as part of the Broken Social Scene Presents… series), Kevin Drew generally works more efficiently in his arrangements. He seems to know the best Dinosaur Jr songs well, as “Backed Out on the…” cuts the same way Mascis, Barlow, and Murph do together. It’s so faithful that Drew brought Mascis in to play lead guitar. If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, what does it mean when you go out and recruit one of your idols? In this case, it seems like a form of mutual validation; Drew acknowledges one of his influences by sharing the spotlight with him, and Mascis sends his blessing to a younger band he appreciates. Even though “Backed Out on the…” shares the same shredding lead and driving feel as a Dinosaur Jr song, it retains its own distinct feel. Specifically, the song sounds much looser and more jovial than most of the Dinosaur Jr catalog. Mascis always sings in his somewhat deadpan voice that provides the calm eye surrounded by the instrumental storm. Conversely, Drew gives his song a vibrant and sloppy feel. He sounds like he’s having a great time, and he should – he’s proclaiming his dedication to individuality while being backed by one of his idols. I’d want to enjoy every second as well.
More on Kevin Drew: Allmusic | Amazon MP3 | Emusic | Last.fm
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