Alison's Halo - Dozen

All Music Guide

Though they come across live as an admittedly wonderful Slowdive Jr., that is less so on this 7" due to a thicker, less pristine, almost dirty edge to their glistening roar. Few bands can make such beguiling sounds while still managing to billyclub you over the noggin, but this Phoenix, AZ quartet achieve that breathlessly and effortlessly. "Dozen" combines spectral guitar passages masterminded by Adam (who also publishes a fantastic underground mag called Whirlpool) with tempting, playful, sonorous vocals from the enchanting Catherine (no last names on the sleeve). Both that song and the B-side "Calendar" are as splendid in the long, enveloping instrumental passages as they are when she sings her way into your consciousness like fabric softener. Add on the usual sheer-brilliance in Independent Projects' sleeve packaging (they weren't nominated for two Grammies for this for nothing), and you've got that 1995 rarity: an absolutely indispensable 7" record. Enrich your life for a cou...ple of smackers, five to be exact. - Jack Rabid, The Big Takeover, All Music Guide Read more Less