Sometimes when bands break up another one is born quickly thereafter,
and often times it turns out to be the best thing that ever happened
for all concerned. In this case, it worked out for the better for
Jeff Cummings and Eric Friar. I feel that both men have become better
and more diversified musicians since they moved on. After the fallout
of their band Wunderkind Friar and Cummings formed Heros
Severum. They rose up out of the ashes in Athens, Georgia to bring
you a different brand of rock music. With the addition of Sheryl Branch
on guitar and vocals, they have now had themselves a full-blown rock
trio. Keep in mind that "Wonderful Educated Bear" was completely finished
in a matter of days, and without any bass whatsoever. I cannot say
that it really made a difference not having bass on this recording,
they seemed to fair just fine without it.
My first impression of the group after a quick glance at the CD was
that it was children's music and my kids would be in for a treat.
I suppose if you look at the title and you have little ones it is
easy to think that way. I was not disappointed to find out that this
was rock music, as I very rarely cover that genre.
This group must have listened to a lot of Talking Heads while
growing up. I noticed that their sound is very similar. The vocals
and guitar reminded me of their quirky and unique sound. The vocals
sound like a sing-talk rap backed by fire branded guitar licks that
go back and forth while bouncing off the percussion like a bunch of
fireflies in a big open field.
This album was one of the most different and entertaining alternative
rock listens I have had all year. Their sound is delightfully infectious,
although you may feel agitated with the repetitive phrasing; I did
not feel irritated by it in the least, and I usually abhor anything
that even remotely resembles rap. The music succeeded in keeping me
occupied right from the starting gun to the curtain closer, there
was no time for mental masturbation, and that is a good thing.
1. The Mechanix Of It
2. Grounded…Like a Prop Plane
3. Driving in a Perpetual Summer
4. Hidden in the Woods
5. (No Title)
6. Out of Round
7. Colors-Paint and Body
8. Rail Against the Contraption
9. From Foot to Foot
10. Bear in the Circus
11. A Better Man
Credits:
Sheryl Branch-Guitar, vocals, piano
Jeff Cummings-Drums, percussion, backing vocals
Eric Friar-Guitar, vocals
