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A

Vs. Monkey Kong (2000)
Buena Vista Entertainment

Reviewer Rating:

Contributed by: Chris Gorman
(others by this writer | submit your own)

Published on May 6th 2001

If you were luckier then I was, you may have caught A on tour with The Bloodhound Gang and Goldfinger. A are a unique band, to say the least. Like many musical hybrids these days, it is nearly impossible to catagorize this band. Some of their songs seem more towards the pop-punk end of things, while others run the gamut from straight up alternative rock to near-thrash. Perhaps the best way to catagorize them is to say they are simply a rock band, pure and simple. A couple of their videos have made it into the MTV2 rotation, but the response has been apathetic. The songs, "Monkey Kong" and "Old Folks" are two of the highlights on this CD that varies from spectacular to mundane. The aforementioned songs, along with "Summer on the Underground", "Don't be Punks", and "Miles Away" are keepers. Other songs, like "A", "For Starters", and "Jason's Addiction" are simpy clutter, bad songs that do nothing to help this album. So basically, this album is a crap-shoot. I got it for free, so I don't feel cheated. If you like summery, diverse rock music, then I suggest this CD. This album would probably sound great live on stage, as the energy is practically dripping out off this CD. A show a lot of potential on "Monkey Kong", and I am hoping that their follow up effort can surpass this CD

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Anonymous (January 5, 2004)

I like this record. Bought it a few years ago.

Anonymous (January 5, 2004)

Britain really have to give the world something great and memorable! theres 3 post for A and not many for Hundred Reasons either! they are a great band!

No one cares about British bands even though they are better than alot of American stuff!

So why the hell do British bands get three comments and shite American bands get 3000!?

ben (August 28, 2001)

After reading this review, you're probably not going to bother buying this album. I suggest you reconsider.

This album has a great blend of songs, ranging from the mellow to the complete opposite. The song 'Don't Be Punks' is easily the worst song on the album, but the other songs more than make up for up.

The singers voice you'll either like or hate, but the melodies are strong, and the backing vocals and harmonies superb.

Mostly the songs are detailed and layered, a feat which can be reproduced live thanks to the sampler/keyboard. And talking of live, 'A' really do put on a great live show. The last time I saw them, they had a snow machine for the song 'I love Lake Tahoe'. The performances are energetic, and you'll leave away feeling great.

Go buy.