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The international pop underground continues
to thieve as indie labels like Sonorama compile the fruits of
vibrant scenes. Pop Jingu is a one way ticket to japan, documenting
a pop movement that happens during the AM hours in small clubs.
Starting it all off, Drumsolo is for the Stereolab addict who
just can't get enough of those spaced-out moogs, steadfast guitars
and vocals sweet as sin. In general it is the pristine vocals
that really set some of those bands apart. 800 Cherries will
charm you with "Boo the Blackberry" and even when the
vocals aren't as striking, such as on Smiley's introspective
"My Execution" , there is such a sense of honesty in
the plain delivery that you can't help but sympathize with the
artist. Moving on, Plain Cream Puff Spray (on the boombox) are
every bit as wonderful as their name, branching out a bit with
quickly beats, and along with the sped-up pop of Red Go Cart
they explore what seems to be more of Japanese sound. But even
with many of the other bands recalling characteristics of other
indiepop scenes, Pop Jingu is well worth seeking out. The instrumentation
is inventive, the production is clear and the bands stir in enough
flavor and variety to keep you satisfied until the next batch
of Japanese pop is ready. Enjoy!
Elliott S.
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