The Mudhens reviewed

The fact that any band would include a euphonium player in it's lineup is reason enough for me to like them. Such is the case here. The first folk/reggae/ska band I've ever heard that has a euphonium player. As an old friend used to say, "Some friggin genius!"

But look deeper than this quirky little tidbit, and you'll find a group making great music. The Mudhens folky, acoustic oriented blend of reggae, rock and ska styles is quite impressive. Lead vocalist Carla Ryder has wonderful voice, with timbral qualities much like Natalie Merchant's. Actually, though, I think she's better than Ms. 'I Must Be One the Wonders' (puh-leeze). Her vocals on "I Want to be Charo" were great, expecially her layered backing vox. The lyrics on this particular cut were quite clever as well. As I'm often wont to comment, it's great songwriting that seperate the pros from the hacks. The Mudhens definitely fall into the 'pro' category, no question. All of the songs have good hooks, excellent harmonic structure and are performed flawlessly. I commend Anthony Resta for the great job he did in putting together a complete musical package. And, kudos also to Bob St. John. The disc is clean and sounds wonderful.

Clever people that they are, The Mudhens actually have 10 songs on this 9 song disc. The last cut, "I Hate My Life", is not listed on the disc sleeve, but it's there. After about 30 seconds of silence, you're treated to a tune that is NOTHING like the rest of the disc's material. Instead, you get a tune in the style of Filter or Stabbing Westward. Distorted vocals. Drum loops. Heavy keyboard production. Heavy, compressed grunge guitar licks. This tune was great, and shows that these guys have the talent to play in any style they choose. It's not often that you hear a disc that's such a complete package as this one by the Mudhens. I commend them for using a myriad of styles in a very genuine acoustic environment, and blending them flawlessly.

If you're not a Henhead yet, I'm certain you will be as soon as you hear this great stuff.