The Fucking Champs - V
(Drag City)
As a music reviewer who is not good, I don't like to focus too much on the specifics of an album or really delve into deep meanings or stuff like that. Basically, I try and give the reader a fair overview of what an album sounds like and leave it at that. I wish that I had the patience and presence of mind to dissect and pick apart music, but I don't.
The Fucking Champs are a totally sweet rock/prog/metal/funny band. For anyone not in the know, the Fucking's totally kick-started the resurgence of sarcastic hesher metal that has found a home in today's indie world. Tim Green (guitar, production) comes from the seminal if over-rated Nation of Ulysses and the other two members, Tim Soele and Josh Smith, are excellent bros for sure.
V is the kind of band statement that only comes about once or twice in the lifespan of a band. This album is excellent. It is short (unlike IV, which went on for way too long), it hits hard, and it even leaves some breathing room. Songs such as "I am the Album Cover" and "Aliens of Gold" provide a much-needed respite from the evil rock attack of songs like "Nebula Ball Rests In A Fantasy Claw" and "Air On A G-String".
The production on V, executed by Mr. Green, is clear and subtle. Throughout the whole album, everything sounds like it belongs where it is and each song brings something different to the table. Don't get me wrong, there are lots of same-y sounding riffs, pinch harmonics, and fifths, but The Champs manage to make every song unique this time around. I really can't imagine The Champs ever topping this album.
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