You see? This is what happens when we let publications like Pitchfork and Stereogum become the tastemakers. Do we really need more mumbling Brooklyn lo-fi? Did we need any of it to begin with? For the life of me, I can’t see the appeal here. I suppose “Funeral Song” would appeal to the Hot Topic crowd, especially those who still enjoy cutting themselves, but do we really want to be encouraging them?
I fussed around on the internet for a while, and found some of the accolades Minks have somehow acquired. They are being compared to early Cure. That’s just insulting. Pornography is one of the greatest albums ever made, while By The Hedge would put a meth addict to sleep.
The one track I almost like on here is called “Ophelia.” The Cure influence (or rip-off) is pretty obvious. They seem to have managed to listen to “A Forest” more than I have which is the only impressive thing I can find about this album. Of course, the song wouldn’t be complete without the pedestrian lyrics “wherever people go/darkness always follows/there is no way to lead a quiet life.” It only gets worse from there.
This album is not worth your time. I hate to write an outright terrible review, but really. This band should not be encouraged. Shame on whoever told Minks they were doing well. It’s your fault I had to listen to this.
Track Listing:
01. Kusmi
02. Out of Tune
03. Life at Dusk
04. Indian Ocean
05. Funeral Song
06. Our Ritual
07. Cemetary Rain
08. Bruises
09. Boys Run Wild
10. Ophelia
11. Juniper
12. Arboretum Dogs
