Rating: NNN
Mark Sultan (sometimes known as BBQ) has played in a billion Canadian garage punk bands, but he’s better known these days for his lo-fi one-man-band routine.
This abridged CD version of two new vinyl LPs doesn’t try to capture that aspect, though, and instead features an array of guest musicians (including members of the Black Lips, the Gories and others) to approximate something closer to a full band sound. This gives the album the feel of a compilation, but does give Sultan the opportunity to show off a wider range of influences. He even drops some gurgling synths and free jazz sax into his raw and primitive rock ‘n’ roll vibe.
While the range of ideas on display is clearly the point of the release, it’s also its biggest shortcoming. What he’s able to accomplish as a live solo musician is more intriguing than anything the guest musicians and overdubs bring to the table, and the lack of sonic consistency is distracting. However, when the punk, doo-wop, early R&B and psych influences come together, the high points are strong enough that you can easily forgive the lack of focus.
Top Track: If I Had A Polaroid
Mark Sultan plays Parts & Labour Friday (December 9).
