The enigma that is Neon Horse is taking the world
by storm. All the good folks at Tooth & Nail Records
are telling us is that they hail from Los Angeles,
the vocalist's name is Norman Horse, and Neon Horse
MAY be comprised of members of over twenty classic
bands. Not a lot of information here, and it's causing
many to speculate that Neon Horse is a supergroup
a la Demon Hunter. This, of course, leads to further
speculation. Who are Norman Horse and his band of
ruffians?
When it comes right down to it, who Neon Horse is
barely matters compared to what Neon Horse is. What
is Neon Horse? How many times can I put the words
"Neon Horse" in this review? Only time will
tell. Neon Horse. Neon Horse is a quirky alt rock
band that has made careful note of the best aspects
of punk and new wave from about 1975 to 1985 and mixed
it with just a splash of modern rock bliss. You want
a better description? Imagine if Rozz Williams wrote
a maniacally happy Christian Death album. Or more
to the point, pour equal parts early Christian Death
and Aquabats into a blender and mix to a froth.
The first notes from your speakers assault you with
a loud, snotty attitude that reminds me of just before
punk and new wave split into opposing genres. "Cuckoo!"
opens the album with a musical snear and my reservations
died with a whimper. This track takes the best of
bands like the Aquabats, T-Rex and the Rolling Stones
and serves them buffet style. The affect is confusing,
then enchanting, then the listener dancing about the
room. I'm glad no one was around to witness my first
listen to Neon Horse.
The album continues in a like manner. "Speed
Kills" is a tense, edgy rock song. "Crazy
Daisy" sounds like Christian Death's "Romeo's
Distress" recorded on a sugar high at a circus.
To sum up, this album is just nuts, leading people
to really want to know, who is Neon Horse? I've heard
the rumor that it may be Mark Saloman and Jason Martin.
In all honesty, I hope Mark Saloman is Norman Horse.
This would be his most punk work in years, and shows
off his vocal chops in a very positive light. All
in all, whoever Neon Horse is, they have made an album
worthy of notice. To understand the Horse you need
to experience it. Go check out Neon Horse. They'll
leave you confused but wanting more. More. Want more
Horse...
Key Tracks: "Cuckoo!", "Crazy Daisy"
Reviewed by Jim McDonald |
