It all comes back to me just like it always does. I remember seeing Jocky Venkataraman and he was one of the most uncomfortable performers that I have ever seen seemingly overcome with self loathing. Likewise, most of his previous recordings collapsed under the weight of his inadequacies.
The “Post Post Office EP”, however, finally snaps Mr. Venkataraman and his music into focus. Perhaps it is Jim Megaw’s influence for there is now far more self discipline and consequently direction on show. I’ve always had a liking for square pegs and round holes so Mr Venkataraman’s sardonic words easily provided much in the way of entertainment. “Be quietly” is an anthem for the underachiever while “Cover The Walls in Silence” had me thinking of him as some sort of Travis Bickle traumatised by his own – indeed our – insignificance. As for “Not Middle Class Enough”, this would be what the Just Joans would sing about if they were from Uddingston rather than Bellshill and felt the need to write a protest song with his deadpan, disinterested vocals just adding to Mr Venkataraman’s appeal.
As I am more than fond of observing, most bands in this part of the world dare to be average. Jocky Venkataraman (and Jim Megaw) dare to be different. If I were a judge, I’d sentence them to success.
Available for download from Wiseblood Industries.