| This is a very interesting and distinctive-sounding effort by the LA-based band CATERWAUL. The band consists of Betsy Martin on vocals, Mark Schafer on guitar, Kevin Pinnt on drums, Kelly Castro on bass, and Stuart Smith on rhythm guitar. The band utilizes a wide array of sounds and styles that range from one extreme to the other. Some songs feature funky rhythms, grungy guitars and wailing vocals, while others have an acoustic, folk-based sound around Betsy's beautiful singing. Regardless of the style, the main focus is always on Martin's distinctive voice. Whether singing an an aggressive rocker or a gentle ballad, she leaves her unique stamp on the song. Her wailing and sudden leaps into the upper register of her voice are somewhat reminiscent of Bjork. On "Flower Song," "Kiss The World," and "Melancholy Holler," Martin's wailing vocals are backed by funky rhythms and grungy guitars. "Silly" is a gentle and reflective rock ballad, with Betsy's voice being backed by echo-laden guitar. On "Naked Soul," Martin's vocals are at their most ethereal and ghostly, as she trips through the upper register of her vocal range. "Steadfast Chains Of Love" features a rocking beat and strong refrain. "Dozens Of Roses" is a gorgeous acoustic number that shows a strong British folk influence. In a similar vein, the band turns in an excellent cover of Donovan's "The River Song." There is plenty of excellent material on this album and the band certainly has a unique and distinctive approach. --Geoff Cabin / Rock Beat International |
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