Schizophrenia can greatly impair one's ability to live a normal life, but such abnormal ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving can make for adventurous and entertaining rock 'n' roll. Bleach's new album, Static, jerks back and forth with the spastic joy of someone with little self-control. This movement may be harmful to the spinal cord, but it sure is fun to watch. Characterized by riffing guitars and cheesy organs straight out of the Devo school of Odd Boy music, Bleach makes music especially designed for the sideshow stage. Or as "Drive" states, It's Jesus and my four wheel Vaudeville show. Another song, "Country Western Star," drops names such as Floyd Cramer and Merle Haggard, but sounds a country mile away from anything played at the Grand Ole Opry. Now and then, Bleach drops the sci-fi masks long enough to get serious as they sing of the Second Coming on "Waving Goodbye": But if the thief comes here tonight/ I hope to see you on the other side. Overall, Bleach is much more colorful than the name implies.
Other coverage for this album
HM Magazine #72Reviewed by Brian Vincent McGovernOne of the label's true modern rock bands, Bleach, has increased songwriting continuity this time around, but also created is a greater opportunity to use more varied vocal styles. All the while, the band's penchant for catchy melody is maintained. The title track uses a danceable groove to convey the desire to adhere to God just as static cling sticks one's clothing together. The record could be…The Lighthouse Unsorted 1998Reviewed by Paul Michael CarhartIn case you've found yourself with nothing but filthy rags since Bleach's first release, I've got news for you. Bleach's new album, Static, is in perfect time for you to do another load. If you liked Bleach's first album, you'll love their latest release, Static. Gone are much of the fuzzy distorted guitars hiding out in the background. Taking their place is a lot more crunch in the foreground…The Phantom Tollbooth 1998Reviewed by Joe RockstrohThis Bleach needs to get dirty. A combination of funky fuzzed guitars, the odd 70's-ish disco vibe, some electronic noises and sounds a la Smashing Pumpkins and Garbage, and a slightly nasal vocalist. Bleach has all the base components to sell records. Unfortunately, they never really capitalize on their potential. The lyrics are, well, typical sub-standard fare--take for instance the first…Similar sounding releases
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