Short Of Popular

Perhaps ironically referring to the breakthrough that never quite occurred for Austin, TX, band the Cherubs, Short of Popular compiles the various singles, compilation tracks, rejected session pieces from Heroin Man, plus an assortment of other sonic odds and ends, and ties them neatly into this send-off album, indicating that the band's break-up was indeed an untimely one. Kevin Whitley's signature nasal vocals, barely audible over the distorted wash of bass and guitar, are like that of a small child attempting to be heard over a steamroller. Beyond the signature roar and wallop of the Cherubs' rhythm section, a noise rock staple, it was the particulars that truly mattered: the undeniable pop melodies articulated throughout the redlined volume, and yes, the oddball Butthole Surfer-isms found here and there. The cover of Blondie's "Dreaming" is rollicking fun. A fine send-off for a band that burned brightly for a few records, then shuffled off. ~ Patrick Kennedy