The Soul Of A New Machine

By 1997, Philadelphia's the Delta 72 had cemented themselves as leaders of the frantic R&B-based punk scene, gaining new fans across the world with their energetic live shows and the diverse sounds on their records. The disc begins with the sampled statement, "Ladies and gentlemen, it's star time!" That opening line of "Introduction, Pt. 2" gives way to Sarah Stolfa's soulful organ, chaotic guitar riffs, and Gregg Foreman's punchy vocals. Through songs like the funky "Floorboard Shake" and fuzzy stop-and-start atmosphere of "I've Dreamt of Leaving Ever Since You Told Me," the bandmembers made it clear that they were not hesitant to take chances. The blistering and bluesy "Scratch" is followed by the rollicking and frenetic "Up in the High Numbers." The pace often changes, like with the jaunty and sometimes low-key "Blow Out." The irony is evident on the blues-heavy and vibrant "We Hate the Blues." The album as a whole is dynamic and daring. It was recorded in March 1997 and released later that year on Chicago's Touch & Go Records. ~ Stephen Cramer