September 10, 2003 White Plastic Deer Justin Ray Mongoose Maybe the name of this album came from cloud watching. Lying on their backs on a summer day, bandmates RC and Shokk could have easily spotted a collection of cumulus clouds resembling a white plastic deer. True, the story would convey a leisurely approach to the process, which is far from the truth. Apparently, the band recorded one song per week. My scientific calculations tell me that this would have spanned about 3.5 months. However, the cloud analogy is appropriate, because while there is no shortage of ideas on White Plastic Deer, there is a distinct lack of definition. Even the band admits there “might be some punk rock” in the mix. (They did not mention the bevy of melodic hooks, chanting choruses, “ironic” post-emo whining, or jazzy math rock.) Not that I’m against this method. The duo made their songs the log- ical way: one at a time. Naturally then, each track should sound good by itself. And they do, for the most part. The downside is the great lack of continuity and, thus, definition. So, is White Plastic Deer any good? Yes! Also, no. The songs are fantastic by themselves, earning comparisons to anything form Pure to P:ano to Pavement, and, well, maybe “some punk rock.” Mongoose has made a spunky little record with something for everyone. On the other hand, even with a playing time of 23:51, the compilation style may be too much to digest all at once. Mala bo en ed ete Damon Shea Music is like breathing to me, and when I hear music like this I just want to tell the whole world. Something happened to me recently I couldn't explain. I heard the melodic guitar and vocal mastery of Damon Shea come alive with such fire and intensity it pushed me to a higher plane. Mesmerized by his mystical presence, which is influenced by Bob Marley and Tracey Chapman, I rushed to buy his CD during a live performance at the Newmusicwest Festival. Since then it plays on my stereo at least once a day and in my head over and over again. Soothing, seduc- tive, transforming, and empowering. It captures the imagination and gently rocks the soul. Earth Magic Music’s Organic Seed album by Damon Shea praises Mother Earth, woman, goddess, the will of man, and of course love, but love in a higher form; love of love. Articulate, angelic lyrics and a Man with the gift of the golden voice shining, sparkling and magnetically appealing. Organic Seed is appropriate- ly named because once this seed is planted in your consciousness your heart will never be the same as it will resonate with pure joy and song. Damon Shea the Fairyking, Soldier of the Underground has truly unfolded a groundbreaking first release. This is not so much a review as it is a testimony. This music has affected me in a way no other music has affected me before. It strikes a chord inside that’s crying out to be played. Experience it for yourself today. If you would like to win a copy of Organic Seed write to the Other Press and a random draw will be made from all responses. If you don’t win you can buy it by sending a 20-dollar money order to Damon Shea; Box 87 Roberts Creek, B.C. VON 2W0 with a return address or contact him via email at , but be sure to buy two because you will be inspired to share it with a friend. r This Month September 15, 1979. i n | i st O ry i Mama Mia! Abba’s first-ever North American concert takes place in Vancouver. If only I had a functioning time machine and four bullets... September 12, 1987. Morrissey leaves the Smiths to pursue a solo career. Legend has it that the tor- Amanda Aikman tured cries of his millions of pompadour sporting, gladioli brandishing fan boys Culture Editor could be heard from space. September 14, 1998. Sean Lennon and his band play three songs on the 200th episode of Melrose Place, thereby reinforcing the tragedy of his father’s senseless murder. Had he survived, who knows what John himself could have accomplished? A headlining gig at the Peach Pit on Beverly Hills 90210, a sexy single on Temptation Island, or perhaps even a guest spot on Moesha. ee Page 14 e http://www.otherpress.ca