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 Chicago alt-rock band has a new record, Brain Rockets, out on Hippotone Records. The seven-song EP, produced by Brian Deck (ex- Red Red Meat) at Rax Trax and Kingsize Studios, is an alt-rock tour de force. The Sublunars employ traditional indie rock song-structures and instrumentation (guitar, bass, and drums) but fill in the nooks and crannies with an eclectic mix of moog syth, organ and accordian. The Sublunars are based around core members and songwriters Matt Reed (Chris Mills Band, Paul K and the Weathermen)--vocals, accordian, moog, guitar; and Bill Rohner-- guitars and bass. Also joining them on the record and gigs around town are Colby Bessara--bass and organ; and Doug Cox--drums. In addition to his deft production touch, Deck adds moog effects on some tracks.  While the multi-instrument approach gives the album a nice atmospheric depth, the Sublunars also benefit greatly from Reed's quirky and distinctive vocals. (Whereas "quirky" and "distinctive" are usually euphemistic for "crappy," in this instance they are used with high regard). Reed's expressive voice, at times reminiscent of XTC's Andy Partridge, at others oddly like Winston Damen of Chicago's Ulele, is the weirdo cool glue that holds the album together. The whole record is quite strong and liberally littered with catchy power-pop gems. The opener, "Venice," a traditional Chicago-style power-pop number, has received a bit of airplay on local alternative rock outlet Q101. Track 5, "A Tune," which would make a nice first single, is great Number One Cup-esque tune. The last track "Lullagoodbye" besides having a great title, is one of the strongest on the record. A slower acoustic number, it is quite beautifully arranged and produced. The backing synth and organ perfect balance the acoustic guitar and Reed's affecting vocals. Altogether a solid and very enjoyable debut record.
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