THE SLACK – The Deep End

Back in 2008, The Dallas Morning News named The Slack as one of the “Next Big Names in Texas Music”. After listening to their sophomore release The Deep End, I would tend to agree. The four piece act from Dallas has a unique sound that touches a wide range of influences in a quirky way . Their music is generally upbeat with catchy lyrics as heard in tracks like “Truth and Fiction” and “The Deep End.” As I mentioned before, obvious influences can be heard throughout the album. The track “Follow On” has a definite Ben Folds Five feel. “Frostbite” has a sound reminiscent of something from Joe Jackson. The album features a wide range of musical styles as well. “The Talk” is the only instrumental cut on the album and features piano, acoustic guitar, flute, and drum. At one point the song takes a very Beatles-esque feel as the flute mimics the opening to “I Am The Walrus.” Overall, the album has a very carefree happy feel to it that makes you tap your toe in approval. Its catchy sound makes this album fun to listen to.

(Idol Records, PO Box 720043, Dallas, TX 75372)