Masonic - Never Stood A Chance - Tight Spot Records

Review by: Jennifer Perkins

The moog, farfisa and xylophone listed as instruments the members of Masonic play on their debut CD Never Stood a Chance were all context clues as to what this little CD might sound like. The CD opener "Say Goodbye" backed up my retro organ oriented theory. However, after repeat listens you realize that retro is but one part to the complex dichotomy that makes up Masonic.

Sure, there is a retro feel here and that is fine with me cuz I dig it. Like Texas counterparts The Deathray Davies Masonic know how to revamp that 60's garage rock sound for today. However, my second musical theory about Masonic had a more space age twinge to it - they remind me of a more stripped down guitar driven Stereolab. Take for example "Brand New Day". This is a great catchy pop song with all the typical Stereolab-esque tweaks and sound effects but add in a guitar. Someone should have thought to marry these two sounds sooner.

The female vocals are slightly flat - in tone as well as in affect. The end result is this kind of Astrud Gilberto for the indie rock scene. Jennifer Christen helps Masonic to differentiate themselves from the crowd and make this band a stand out. If things were an ooch more on the chipper side the Velocity Girl comparisons would start in so this is a nice change.

Recorded, mixed and produced by the band, Never Stood a Chance has a nice warm soothing feel. 3 of the 5 members of Masonic are brothers so I am sure keepin' it in the family probably helped to make for a more relaxed recording process. Almost like there was no pressure in the studio just free flowing musical love. Did I mention the packing alone makes the purchase worthwhile? Blue card stock case with silver embossing.

I can remember the first time I heard Masonic. I was driving to The Treaty Oak on a Sunday afternoon and I heard them on a 'next big thing' type radio show. I shushed my boyfriend, paid close attention and crossed my fingers that Tight Spot Records would not forget one Naughty Secretary on their promotion list. My wish came true and I have been a damn happy camper since this pop gem has hit my PO Box.

Read where Masonic got their name from here.