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Album Details

• Artist: Califone
• Album: Quicksand/Cradlesnakes
• Label: Thrill Jockey
• Year of Release: 2003
• ME Rating:
• Reviewed by: dscanland on 2003-07-23

Tim Rutili is the classic case of an underexposed genius. First it was his under-rated Red Red Meat project that fell to the wayside and now it's his Califone project. In the case of the former, it is still regarded as one of the high points of indie music. With the latter, well, it all depends on how Tim handles it. Quicksand/Cradlesnakes is his third album under the Califone moniker and his best to date. There are similarities to that of Red Red Meat but his is taking Califone to the next level of experimental pop music. It is a very consistent effort with many subtle dimensions. "(Red)" is a track that sounds like it could have been on the rock/blue band Black Keys recent album but then "Your Golden Ass" clips along at a steady pace with some fairly low-key vocals. "Million Dollar Funeral" is a tried and true blues track that sound like it could be on a Kelly Joe Phelps album. Califone is a band that will appeal to both fans of alt roots music as well as experimental pop music. They are an understated group of musicians who manage to take their music to the next level. Rutili should be proud of this album will hopefully be remembered for it as well.

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