Wolf Parade : At Mount Zoomer

<img src="http://www.qromag.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/wolfparadeatmountzoomer.jpg" alt=" " />Several side projects by members of the band put their second album under greater anticipation and loftier expectations.  ...
8.0 Sub Pop
2008 

 Several side projects by members of the band put their second album under greater anticipation and loftier expectations. The four-piece also added a fifth as Dante DeCaro jumped from Hot Hot Heat onto what’s become closer to an indie super-group.  On At Mount Zoomer, Wolf Parade trims up and buffs down their rough, metallic sound and shows a more sophisticated side that benefits from their experience.

While maintaining their icy bravado, the group delivers a smooth set of rambling rock that paints a stark picture.  Their debut album, Apologies to Queen Mary, introduced their nearly signature brothers-in-arms, gritty pop with hyper a pace, while At Mount Zoomer reduces the temperature further, giving a jazz-rock-from-an-ice-cave feel. 

The opening track, "Soldier’s Grin", kicks off the trademark lo-fi party with a cavernous garage-pop ballad.  With a reverbed sound that’s as if no one’s within 100 feet of them, Wolf Parade distances itself from the crowd in several ways.  "Call It a Ritual" is a hypnotic roller that and "California Dreamer" is explosive, electric rock stomp, and both command a presence in a don’t-get-too-close teeth knash.  "Language City", "Fine Young Cannibals", and the closer, "Kissing the Beehive" gives a cold shoulder to the tapping energy of before and focus with a more deliberate, sharper edge.  

Overall, At Mount Zoomer is a deliberate, glacial effort that well represents the experience of its members.  With a powerful collective wisdom, Wolf Parade are able to produce an uncommon mix of lively and difficult rock.  The multi-headed monster led by Dan Boeckner and Spencer Krug grind out a rock-solid effort that’s filled with excitingly treacherous grooves.

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