Album Reviews

Even though Silver Jews formed in the late '80s (before Pavement) "The Joos," are often associated with Pavement—because members of The Joos have had stints in the legendary indie rock band. However, Silver Jews and Pavement are two completely separate musical efforts and should be treated accordingly. With this installment in their musical repertoire, Lookout Mountain, Lookout Sea, The Joos lead us down a familiar road, which sounds something like the best country music imaginable. It's twangy and dirty, yet lighthearted and fun to listen to. Not necessarily a novelty act, the Silver Jews are entertaining, but they're also downright listenable.

The opening tune titled "What Is Not, But Could Be If," has a certain resemblance to the Johnny Cash hit "Ring Of Fire," and it's followed by an uptempo track, "Aloyisius Bluegrass Drummer," which bares a strong similarity to "The Devil Went Down To Georgia." "Suffering Jukebox," the third track, and perhaps the standout song on the album, is a reminder of how great and original the band's music can be. The album ends with "We Could Be Looking For The Same Thing," which is, for the lack of a better description, a love song that melts your heart. This serves as the perfect way to close an album. In its entirety, the record is impressive, inventive and transcendent. It's a new classic that will eventually turn into an old favorite over time. The Joos have done it again, and it gets better every time.



—Alexis Roberts
06.17.08