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I like it
Pine View Grocery
This is pretty straightforward rock and roll, and I like it. Bass, drums,
guitar - a classic trio composed of two guys and a gal. The sound here is
roots-oriented and strongly reminiscent of the '60s, without in any way
intentionally "copping a feel" for bygone days. Glen Closer just sounds that
way.
The harmonic blend of voices is infectious and pleasant, music worthy of the
heartland. Having a girl in the band (bassist Johnna White) helps that way. Jim
Baeszler's guitar tone is righteously pure. And Joe Rubin turns in working class
drumbeats.
It comes as a surprise to me that the band hails from New Jersey. I would have
guessed Arkansas or Wisconsin. But why should I be surprised? The Garden State
produced Bruce Springsteen, who managed to work his way into the American
landscape most effectively. New Jersey is for everyone.
Having brought up the Boss, let me dispense with him quickly, because Glen
Closer sounds nothing like him. They have none of the bombast of early
Springsteen and none of the "tired codger playing with synth pads" habits of
latter-day Bruce. When you think of Glen Closer, think stripped down roots rock
with twangy guitars, thumping bass, garage quality drums, and melodies that are
almost folky in their fragile simplicity.
It's the kind of worn-in music you can hang onto, whether you live in a barn, a
split-level, or rowhome. When you listen to an album, and it makes you want to
plug in the electric axe and crank it up, you know you've found something you
want to keep.
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