Quasi/ American Gong

Quasi
American Gong
(Domino Records)

Despite already being prime movers in Stephen Malkmus’ beloved Portland and coming along for the ride when everyone’s favourite re-union shows hit our isle in May, Quasi are by no means just another pale Pavement substitute. Having released their first record way back in the dusty days of 1993, they’ve been jamming in the margins of pop since then, their ability to wail in no way relative to their somewhat low profile.
Throughout American Gong, main man Alex Coomes absolutely smashes it. His voice can be disarmingly sweet one minute, full of vitriol and wicked warnings the next. Backed by soaring west coast harmonies and fierce drumming courtesy of Janet Weiss, Coomes’ vocal versatility commands the record and is only topped by his ability to shred the guitar in ways that make Jack White sound like Jay-Z strumming Wonderwall at Glastonbury.
The pace of the record rarely slows, with a barrage of riff heavy power-pop gems such as ‘Bye Bye Blackbird’ keeping the momentum going until finally they settle into the slow jam groove of ‘Death Is Not The End’. With its piercing strings, pounding piano and all-knowing lyrics, it’s a Bond theme for an alternative universe and it rules.
This is a strong collection of songs and along with their high profile supports this summer, should see Quasi’s star ascend considerably.