Barbeau, Anton & Bevis Frond – “King of Missouri ” – [Bongo Beat Records]

mitch   6/24/2006   A Library, CD

Released 2003 in the UK on Nick Saloman’s
imprint, this 2005 Canadian version features a wholly
different design, remastering, & lyric + liner note overhaul.
Sacramento’s BARBEAU is a force of nature, equal parts
brilliant lyricist/superb showman/eccentric original/ irreverent
pop genius/unique melodicist/grand traditionalist/compelling
stylist of contemporary power pop. A frequent SCOTT MILLER
collaborator, BARBEAU here pairs with freak beat specialists
BEVIS FROND in a batch of recordings rendered to tape in
Bromley UK; earlier demo versions can be found on ‘Will Ant
For Frond? (2002). Hook-filled amidst crystalline guitar play
(Saloman on lead), solid rhythm of bass (Adrian Shaw), drums
(Andy Ward) & the perfectly poised/romantically bruised vocal
hues of ANTON straight up, as Exhibit A in sonic enthusiasm.
Tough, telling and a listening joy.

MITCH June 2005