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This debut album from the LA trio the eels is a substitute for Xanax. The songs are soothing, sometimes unsettling lullabies that combine moody melodies with funky samples. The band's single "Novocaine for the Soul" grooves addictively through its innovative use of sampling (with strings, Mellotron, glockenspiel) to complement vocalist/ guitarist E's wounded vocals. "Susan's House" switches among trippy beats, spoken words, and soft harmonies. *** eels
BEAUTIFUL FREAK
(DreamWorks)
Throughout, thoughtful lyrics chronicle a harsh world. "Beautiful Freak" is about being different and trying to fit in. "Guest List" describes the competitive club scene with an acid-house backdrop. This is blissful melancholy, a mellow ride that's best enjoyed in one sitting, from beginning to end. And it's cheaper and less painful than therapy.
-- Amy Steele
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