Pernice Brothers - Goodbye, Killer (From Salisbury Journal)

Pernice Brothers - Goodbye, Killer

12:53pm Wednesday 16th June 2010 in CD Reviews

Artist - Pernice Brothers
Album - Goodbye, Killer
Label - One Little Indian

Once upon a time, Pernice Brothers were able to put together outstanding wit, lyric writing and punchy exciting music.

That time was 2001, with the World Won't End. Since then, with 2003's Yours Mine and Ours, 2005's Discover A Lovelier You, and 2006's Live a Little, the highlights have become progressively harder to find.

Like Teenage Fanclub, the sound is still there (very like Teenage Fanclub in sound), the lyrics are still there, but my goodness, Joe Pernice's voice has gone. Most of this album sounds like it took him by surprise, and that he's singing a couple of keys above where he feels comfortable.

This is a shame, as the songs are back to standard, but there is no way past the voice - while never the band's strongest asset, it was never a hindrance, but with this latest release it has become a distraction. Great set of songs for another band to re-record, though.

Rating 6/10
Mike Rea