Friday, January 28, 2011

The Ex - Catch My Shoe [2010]


Here's the most recent from everyone's favorite Dutch improv-anarcho-post-punk-world collaborators the Ex. They've been called the Dutch answer to Crass, but the Fall might be closer to the mark (but without the associated dickishness). Maybe This Heat? Most all comparisons fail though, as the Ex is a pretty unique group. Some bands just get better with age and these guys are one of them. This album (their 25th, I think) is a jam, front to back. The opener, "Maybe I Was the Pilot," is different from the version released as a single earlier in 2010, with the new horn section. Really, the dissonant trumpet adds a lot to the sound of this album; it's well-executed and improves the urgency of the record. Katherina Bornefeld's propulsive drumming has a singular rhythm which is an absolute joy to watch live (see video below). And there's plenty of electric guitar free-kout stuff, like in "Bicycle Illusion." "Keep On Walking" is a triumphant anthem, totally accessible and inspiring. I can only think positive things about this band and this album. Highly recommended.



Buy the damn records
Why take a risk when you can take a vacation
Free music direct from the Ex
See them live, holy shit

2 comments:

  1. valeu cara!! Bom demais esse te blog!

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  2. Obrigado! Eu tenho mais mensagens Ex planejadas.

    Or at least that's what Google Translate told me to say. I'm working on a post of the Ex w/ Guests from 2010, when they toured the songs that would end up on this album.

    I've linked your site on mine, good stuff you have there.

    ReplyDelete