American Analog Set Set Free Arts & Crafts, 2005 amazon

Way back in the mid-90's word somehow found its way to me that there was a band that i might like, playing drony indie rock. Having just discovered Spacemen 3 and equating "drone" with my shoegazing favorites, i naturally ran over to Amoeba and picked up 1996's The Fun of Watching Fireworks by said band, American Analog Set. A mixed affair on first listen, i was captivated by "On My Way", a seven minute organ-laden opus with no end of engaging hooks. Time went by and AAS faded from my attention, until their genius 2001 album Know By Heart won my heart, particularly the inaccurately-titled opening track "Punk as Fuck". The band had found its voice in whispered melodic vocals over simple yet mesmerizing guitars and bass. The organ, while still present, had taken a backseat and was an accent instead of a crutch. The boys from Austin continue to press on in their musical journey, seemingly ending up on a new label with each record. 2005's Set Free is no exception, with AAS now labelmates of Canadian indie masterminds Broken Social Scene on Arts & Crafts. They retain their musical vision however. "Born on the Cusp" maintains the subtlety of previous AAS songs, with the infectiousness of the melody allowed to slowly take you over, rather than beating you over the head. The organ makes an appearance on "Cool Kids Keep", which achieves a sort of Yo La Tengo vibe in both vocal, bass, and drums (played with brushes). The growth of AAS is most apparent on their slower numbers like "Play Hurt", in which they manage to captivate the listener while bringing the tempo to a near standstill. On previous albums i found myself yawning during songs like this, but no longer. My east coast friend Rob saw the band play live once and described it as the quietest show he'd ever seen. There's a philosophical message to be gleaned from that ... the transience of beauty? Don't speak or you'll miss it? Whatever it is, American Analog Set have made another beautiful indie pop record that won't tear up the charts, but is brilliant nonetheless.

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