It's hard to think of a more appropriately named band than Low.
The trio's music is low velocity, low volume, and frequently as sad and low
as the tearful individuals depicted in public service TV clips about
getting help for one's depression. But when you need respite from music
that screams in your ear, grabs you by the lapels, and beats you over the
head, Secret Name will do the trick just fine.
The album's twelve songs
are all built on sparse percussion, subtle guitar rhythms, and delicate
bass melodies. Sparhawk and Parker twine their voices into the instrumental
fabric like silver threads in an otherwise dark tapestry, then let them
soar in expressions of wordless, prayerful longing. What sets this record
apart from other Low albums is the combination of dry production (Steve
Albini sat behind the board this time, whereas the first couple of Low discs
were produced by reverb king Kramer) and relatively elaborate arrangements
that feature shadowy keyboard shadings and a string section.
If you like Low, check out:
Jessica Bailiff Hour Of The Trace
Lois Maffeo & Brendan Canty The Union Themes
Galaxie 500 This Is Our Music
The Velvet Underground The Velvet Underground
Joy Division Closer
-- Bill Meyer
