Mirror, Mirror, Lucius Is the Coolest One of All

Lucius

So this review follows my recent penchant for mid-'60s inspired pop music.  New York's Lucius follows in this vein, similar to other bands I have reviewed, like The Head & the Heart, except better.  Their debut, "Wildewoman", is a strong introduction into the music community.  Turn on your lava lamps and get your groove on, because this album will find an immovable niche in your brain.

Their ensemble is led by two female singer/ keyboardists - Jess Wolf and Holly Laessig.  The two create some deep vocal harmonies that are, again reminiscent of the '60s.  In their videos, they seem to cash in on this kitsch, wearing their hair and clothing like they did in that era, even dancing like they did then.  Does anyone remember The B-52s?  In the videos, there seems to be a common theme, that each singer is a reflection of the other.  Their resemblance is uncanny, but they way they mirror each other and compliment each other in the music works very well.

This record begins with the title track, "Wildewoman", that recounts the description of some fiery woman, sounding very much like it could be sung by The Everly Brothers.  The second track, the main single called "Turn It Around" sets its groove with some funky keyboards and a clapping rhythm.  Their voices shimmer like light on the water.

Some of the songs take on a bit of the swampy delta blues as in "Go Home" and "Nothing Ordinary".  Some songs are shimmering pop gems like "Hey, Doreen", "Until We Find Love", and "Don't Just Sit There".  Other songs are breathy and subdued, suggestive of Bon Iver or Iron & Wine, like "Monsters" and one of my favorites, "Two Of Us On the Run".  Perhaps the song that stands out the most of all and best reflects this particular set of musicians is "Tempest".  If anything, at least check this out.

I highly recommend Lucius.  If you are looking for something different, something out of the mainstream, then this is the band for you.  It would be better if you wore a beehive while gyrating to their sounds.