Left Is West "Alive Between the Record Sleeves" - CD Reviews

The Des Moines Register Datebook, Thursday, August 31, 2006
www.desmoinesregister.com

Left Is West
"Alive Between the Record Sleeves"
Barely Bias
3.5 stars (out of 5)

Chad O'Neall writes lyrics with an off-kilter literary flair: "Olympic mops and kudzu mountains, fanged heels and molten faces." That's from the title track, packed with crafy allusions to classic rock album-cover art. The Des Moines band's melodies are catching up with O'Neall's vivid images. -- Kyle Munson

Left is West
"Alive Between the Record Sleeves"
Barely Bias

If you didn't know Left is West is one of the bright spots on the Des Moines music scene, you might think you were listening to an album produced by a popular band from a bigger city. That's not to say we have to go outside the Capital City to hear good music, as we're reminded on Left is West's luminous new album, "Alive Between the Record Sleeves." But each of the the 10 pop-rock tracks found here are so well-crafted and pleasing, thanks to their concise lyrics, creative arrangements, intuitive musical and vocal interplay and professional production, they are deserving of wider attention. It's hard to choose a handful of favorites, though the early '80s power-pop sound of "A Sad Situation," the tongue-in-cheek "Thug Appeal" and the roots vibe of "Unloved" and "Last Exit to Twin Town" come to mind. One of the better albums of the year. -- Michael Swanger

Art Scene, August 2006, Issue 8 Volume 4
www.artsceneiowa.com

Left is West
"Alive Between the Record Sleeves"
4 stars (out of 5)
Similar to: Built To Spill, Tapes n' Tapes

One of the first offerings from Ladd Askland's new record label, Barely Bias, is an indie kid's worst nightmare. It's a unique-sounding romp through an alternative soundscape that has tons of mass appeal. It won't be just the cool kids singing along to this one, I'm afraid. The melodies and songwriting on this record are too good for the horn-rimmed scenesters to just keep to themselves. Comprised of members from many other groups, Left of West [sic] is an independent voice shouting out from Des Moines loud enough for everyone to hear and enjoy. -- Tony Tarbox

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