The Embryos – National Absurdatory

With National Absurdatory, The Embryos seemingly embrace a different musical genre with each track. Juxtapose that with engaging melodies, harmonies and thematic elements – common threads throughout the album – and you’ve got a surprisingly good listening experience.

The opening song, “Morning Birds”, is a terrific single. It’ll make you miss the days of Motown and the best of AM radio. The slightly psychedelic “Rattlesnake” is another highlight. Its spot on harmonies, shimmering guitars and farfisa organ give the tune a 60’s feel.

When is the last time you heard The Rolling Stones and Merrilee Rush (“Angel in the Morning”) referenced in the same song? Well, The Embryos do just that with “Spend the Night”. A rocker that reminds me just a little bit of Jonathan Richman, it’s one of several highlights. Another favorite track, the slower “Someone To Hold Me”, takes it’s cues from The Beatles’ Let It Be period.

The Embryos’ National Absurdatory is a wonderful surprise. Don’t be shocked if it finds it’s way onto many best of the year lists in a couple months. GET THE CD AT KOOL KAT MUSIK or download the digital version at the band’s Bandcamp page.