In the world of the eclectic, the one with the melody is king. Especially if the songs comes on vinyl. Perhaps green vinyl and in a nice gatefold sleeve? And so "The Wolf" by Sacramento band Agent Ribbons landed on the turntable at Bluesbunny Towers.
Hitting 45rpm, "The Wolf" cast its spell. It was more of a tale of misadventure rather than a fairytale or perhaps something from Queen Amanda Palmer. It's arty without a doubt and reeks of cabaret in its presentation with singer Natalie Ribbons playing the part of a world weary cabaret singer lost in a twisted toy land. Offbeat, quirky - call it what you will - but this song makes you want to drink champagne and sleep with an actress.
Close behind was "That's Not Edgar's Heart". We're still in that big city basement amongst the bow ties and cigar smoke. Edgier in some ways than"The Wolf", it still evokes images of bright red lipstick and decaying glamour. You can tell there is imminent danger of jazz too. Again, a bit off the mainstream but it isn't hard to work up affection for this one.
Available by mail order from the Seven Inch Project website.