Fiver

Let It All Fall Down (Devil in the Woods)

By Anne C. Johnson
Published: October 20th, 2004 | 11:48am

A friend of mine describes Modesto, California as "hot, dry, and boring." Fiver hails from this "hot, dry, and boring" land and it's clear that, maybe out of boredom, they've spent a lot of their time listening to and studying music (no offence to any Modesto natives). The band's sound is intricate, nicely layered, and precise, and though it isn't original, it is clearly the work of serious and meticulous music fans.

On Let It All Fall Down, Fiver makes their musical influences clear. The title track is clearly an homage to the Cocteau Twins, where the lovely harmonies and the same delirious musical swells of the Twins are heard. On "Keep Us in Stitches," the group infuses elements of Radiohead, the Cure, and Sonic Youth. Such musical ghosts are so prominent and so much time is spent wondering, "Who does this sound like?" that the influences on the album ultimately become a distraction.

Founder David Woody's vocals are unique in that they are both lovely and grating. The guitar and keyboard are impressive throughout the recording and musical meandering is held in check by drums. There are also vague political overtones (on "They Hardly Know," Woody sings the name of Ross Perot -- but who knows, maybe it just rhymed.)

Let It All Fall Down could be considered a tribute album of sorts. Curious to hear the band's interpretations of talented artists? Check out this release.