There is something about Chicago that tends to breed talented, hardworking musicians. In the 1990s, bands like Local H, Triplefastaction, Fig Dish, and others brought the Chicago underground scene some mild recognition. But they were overshadowed by fellow Chicagoans Smashing Pumpkins and the grunge revolution in Seattle. Now, a new crop of bands, with Caviar at the top, are producing high-quality music that often goes unnoticed.
Caviar was formed from the fractured remains of Fig Dish and released its self-titled debut album in 2000. Their single "Tangerine Speedo" received modest airplay and they managed to get the song "Sugarless" onto the "Gone in 60 Seconds" soundtrack. The sharp wit and melodies of Fig Dish remained the foundation of the music, but Caviar had evolved into something completely unique with its incorporation of samples and dance influences.
Four years later, Caviar is back with "The Thin Mercury Sound" (an obscure Dylan reference) on Aezra Records. Opting for the independent label over Island Records, this CD is not poised for tremendous financial success. But Caviar has crafted the album in their own vision and their lack of constraints truly shows.
"The Thin Mercury Sound" showcases a broad array of creative influences that make it stand out from other CD's labeled "rock" by the music community. "10% November" is a straight-up Middle Eastern dance song that is surprisingly catchy. "Last of the Gold" and "Hey Let Go" are two of the ballad-type songs that do not abandon the rock or dance sensibilities of Caviar. Spanish-style guitar solos and rhymed, fast-paced verses are other elements that would seem out of place if Caviar did not execute them so well. "Lioness" is arguably the best song on the album, with its brilliantly crafted lyrics, beautiful vocals, and superb guitar parts.
Despite its stark contrasts, "The Thin Mercury Sound" flows as a coherent whole. Caviar somehow makes the transition work from traditional rock to Middle Eastern dance to heartfelt ballad. The only song that feels out of place is the single "On the DL," which falls short in its attempt to recapture the comedic/musical brilliance of "Tangerine Speedo." On the whole, the jokes are fewer than on the last CD, and many of the blatant sexual references ("She got the goldmine, I got the shaft") are gone. But the wit and clever rhymes in songs like "Ego Trippin'" and "Where Are You?" will bring a smile to anyone's face.
Caviar's most recent release is for anyone looking for something new, intriguing and excellent. The band is able to express separation and heartbreak through equal part sincerity and humor. When this is reinforced by incredible rhythms, melodies, and musical creativity, "The Thin Mercury Sound" becomes one of the best albums of 2004.
