Albums by this artist

Big Mistake Factory (2001)

Fivehead

Big Mistake Factory

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» A.K. GOLD | STAFF WRITER

Fivehead Big Mistake Factory Tight Spot, 2001 RiYL: Sebadoh, Archers Of Loaf, Guided By Voices

As much as I love early '90s lo-fi guitar rock, there is something about trying to recapture that era, or more pointedly not moving on from it, that leaves a strange flavor lingering in my mouth. The taste is not so bad that I am gagging with my tongue hanging out, but songs that aim to sound like Guided by Voices or Sebadoh often leave a mild chemical aftertaste like what remains after consuming a store bought, processed, low-fat brownie. Fivehead's Big Mistake Factory is like a low-fat brownie.

The opener, "Cape Codders" is a catchy ditty with witty wordplay a la Dave Berman's lyrics for the Silver Jews. But much of the middle of the album, especially "Halftime Show," is so self-consciously lo-fi (and GBV-derivative) that it is almost cringeworthy. "Young and Compliant" instrumentally resembles a fuzzy hoedown from the likes of Neutral Milk Hotel. However, the sincere lyrical content that makes NMH front man Jeff Magnum's opuses unique and effective is lacking. The diverse compositions that Fivehead is capable of creating speaks to their musicianship and potential for more satisfying, butter-included, home-made music in the future. But that can't happen until they get rid of that early '90s aftertaste.

A.K. GOLD | A.K. Gold lives in Washington, D.C., where she slaves away for a non-profit organization and constantly compares everything to New York City or Chicago. She's earned her "cred" as a college radio and pre-1960 country music DJ, committed indie label street teamer, sporadic zinemaker/contributor, retired mail-order filler and occasional freelance writer. From time to time, she publishes Anecdotal Evidence, a per zine that will some day be considered for the National Book Award, or possibly not. If you want to buy a copy, or desire to write to her for some other reason, email criticgirl@hotmail.com.