Lujo Records takes a novel approach with this project -- two self-titled EPs on two different discs, yet packaged together. Hidari Mae recalls eighties gloomy new wavers such as Joy Division and the Smiths with the emo singer/songwriting style of Elliott Smith on their half of this project. The overall feel is plaintive and somber, most notably in "In the Name of Science" and "November, 1950."
Speed Not Steal combines a lot of elements of bands I really like. They employ great use of harmonies a la Jellyfish with overdubbing of vocals that works extremely well. "Anything Isn't Everything" recalls the glory days of Ben Folds Five, while "I Lost the Battle" shows some Coldplay influence. In general, the band resembles another of my favorite indie projects from a few years ago, Wisconsin band Huddle. This half of the project definitely outshines the first.
Hidari Mae: 3 tocks
Speed Not Steel: 4 tocks
Other coverage for this album
Decapolis July 2004Reviewed by Derek SkillingsDon't let the words "split ep" confuse you when referring to this Hidari Mae / Speed Not Steel split. This is not two bands sharing one ep with a couple of songs each, this split if you can even call it that is more like two completely separate albums sharing the same packaging. Each disc contains about 1/2 hour of material from the respective band, quite the deal for a split ep. As the two…Similar sounding releases
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