Earth Odyssey

Earth Odyssey was the first release by the Los Angeles-based Get Hustle. Although this CD only runs for 28 minutes, it is packed with ten high-octane songs. Melodies are evanescent, singer Valentine stretches time and pitch, making them sound random. The rhythm section is very tight and delivers complex structures full of time signature changes and abrupt mood shifts. Get Hustle's sound is akin to the aesthetic of the Swiss label Rec Rec in the late '80s/early '90s with bands like No Safety, Zero Pop and Ne Zhdali: angular rock music with complex arrangements (although bearing little to no resemblance to progressive rock) and a certain level of uncertainty. But Get Hustle avoids the clean production of the former bands which had a way of sterilizing their sound. This band relies on more indie production values, and they work very well. Every song on Earth Odyssey is memorable and their shortness only enhances the impression they leave. A song like "Tropic of Capricorn," with its twisted vocals, fast drumming, and Monk-like piano clusters, depicts very mature writing talent. The guitar/piano interplay — and simply the presence of a piano in an indie rock combo — plays a central part in the band's appeal. "Bloo Boo" is another highlight, with it's opening riff and melody recalling the Estonian band Ne Zhdali: anger channeled in a deconstructed power rock format exempt of clichés. Very good avant rock. ~ François Couture, Rovi