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Look Mexico

Gasp Asp [7 inch] (2008)
Lujo Records

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

Published on November 25th 2008

With its sometimes brilliantly intricate instrumentation, quality songwriting and overall sunny approach, 2007's This Is Animal Music was a breath of fresh air in the indie world -- Look Mexico had created a unique record with a ton of standout moments that also honorably paid homage to bands like American Football and Minus the Bear, among others that came before them, and the recognition the band received for their efforts was well-deserved. The band makes their return with Gasp Asp, a four-song EP that sees Look Mexico beginning to hit their stride as a band. Despite its all-too-short running time and the lofty expectations based on the quality of This Is Animal Music, the songs found here are the band's most accomplished in every aspect imaginable.

A string section opens up "You're Not Afraid of the Dark, Are You" and Gasp Asp before the full band kicks in, and it's immediately apparent that these guys are taking yet another step forward with this release. The production here is noticably more lush than that of This Is Animal Music, giving the music a 'heavier,' more atmospheric feel. Matt Agrella's voice has also strengthened by leaps and bounds -- and he was no slouch in that department to begin with, which makes his improvement that much more impressive. The melodic nature of the verses -- helped along by Joshua Mikel's excellent drumming -- meshes well with the organized chaos that rules the chorus.

"Don't You Dare" begins as a foot-stomping tune before descending into an intricate collection of twinkling guitars, well-placed cymbal fills and Agrella's continuously strong vocals. Mikel's drumming again steals the show on "I'm Not Guilty, But I'm Used to It," pounding away vigorously but never sounding busy or outside of the overall scope of the song. And Agrella shines on the EP's closer, "A Survivor's Code, My Code," showcasing his impressive vocal range, while low and high dueling guitar songs dominate the song's second half.

Gasp Asp does what many good EPs do; it leaves just as quickly as it arrives, and leaves a bittersweet taste in one's mouth, with the listener hankering for more. Hopefully a new full-length is in the cards soon for Look Mexico.

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TheWalkingTargets (October 30, 2010)

this is amazing stuff

xshoutoutx (November 30, 2008)

The Minus The Bear comparisons are unquestionable, and the American Football resemblance was applicable to this bands prior releases... but lately I don't know what it is, I just can't get into this new sound. They sound WAAAAY too much like MTB now, and I would even venture to say like Death Cab circa Transalantacism. Which normally in my book wouldn't be a bad thing, but this just sounds too overproduced and alien to what they have created within the past. I don't know, I feel as though I am being too critical, because this band is really awesome, but I am just not digging these new jams.

bytheslice (November 27, 2008)

I found their cd for $1 (the one that compiles an ep and some b-sides). It's pretty good. It reminds me of early 90's indie rock mixed with Minus The Bear.

bluexmaslights (November 26, 2008)

great review, great band. i need to get this

jerrodlp (November 26, 2008)

i've got a 7" for you, too. ;)

mean_and_Average (November 25, 2008)

hi chuck!

bearchuck (November 25, 2008)

If anyone is interested in picking up the "7-inch of the year," we've got a pre-order going at http://www.tinyengines.net.

The actual vinyl records shipped yesterday and the jackets will ship on Wednesday...which means I'll be putting stuff together and mailing orders next week. Vinyl Collective has a pre-order up for the 7-inch as well.

Also, I can say without hesitation that Gasp Asp is unequivocally the best record that Tiny Engines has ever released. EVER! We are truly a powerhouse with mad punk rock cred. Please love me.

onegirlarmy (November 25, 2008)

Close to being 7" of the year.

I back this!

ConJohn (November 25, 2008)

So fucking good They were also on of the best bands I saw at fest this year.

SloaneDaley (November 25, 2008)

I need this but I've banned myself from buying anymore new records. I just got their split with Fake Problems, and it si pretty good.

Dante3000 (November 25, 2008)

Every time this comes up I say the same thing (sound like a broken record), this is the best thing Look Mexico has ever done. I seriously think folks should get on this and their next full length is gonna floor people.
-Dante

mikexdude (November 25, 2008)

This band is just incredible and so is this 7''.

inagreendase (November 25, 2008)

Close to being 7" of the year.