STEVE SHIFFMAN & THE LAND OF NO – Nemegt Uul

reviewed by Dan Chapman | Monday, January 23rd, 2012

One of few bands that are a staple of that fuzz-filled Wilco sound, Steve Shiffman and his band create a small EP that highlights a grimy and simplified style. Guitar chugging but lyrically focused, Shiffman makes a point to show that he’s got something to say, and whatever it may be, he uses plenty  of words. Musically, the EP seems pretty sparse for a five-piece band, but he result is a raw garage rock sound that’s difficult to argue with.

The thing is, earlier this year they put out the Death And Love EP that was more intimate and seemed to be more crafted instead of just loud, and ultimately it’s the stronger batch of songs. Although Shiffman’s voice carries the same as it did on Death And Love, these new tracks are more one-dimensional.

Jamming-wise, Nemegt Uul takes the cake, but for living up to the expectations set by their previous EP, it falls a bit flat.

(Later Records, no address provided)

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