Having a Listen: Melted

March, 03, 2011 , by Vince

"Finger" is the opening track on Ty Segall's 2010 album Melted. It starts simple. The vocals and quiet guitar sound typical and almost ignorable. Then, out of nowhere, this wash of slow-ala-DJ Screw grunge drums and guitar kick in. It sounds confident. The vocals are slightly chaotic, but the ooh's in the chorus are a nice balance. Weird oscillators creep through the speakers and bring the song to its end.

And that is it. It is the proper introduction to something you will encounter over and over again on Melted. "Caeser" picks up the pace (and some more sonic definition) with a Barrett type approach, like "Jugband Blues", but sped up. The pace of the album overall is steady and encourages your ears to listen. The songs on this album are a dark approach to pop music.

The title track echoes the notions from "Finger". It encompasses all those sonic weapons showcased throughout Melted. Weird and great harmonies, booming drums and flawless execution of effects take "Melted" to the albums' apex. Then the song starts melting. Have you ever tried to listen to a record player that's been sitting in the sun all day? It sounds something like that. It is another song where you are caught off guard by the ending.

"Imaginary Person" addresses the idea of a schizophrenic coming to the realization of their condition, but nowhere near a resolution. That perspective turns and addresses an object of affection in "My Sunshine". The album calms down a bit on "Mrs." but does not change the bad attitude, as Ty pleads to be sent down the river. Everything is going wrong and there is no turning around. The album closer "Alone" just seals the deal. It is the final chance to make peace with the demons, but it is too late. They have manifested, but at least they are organized.

Melted is a fun listen, sure to get more spins as the weather gets warmer (please keep your record players inside, though).

Ty Segall performs with The Super Vacations and (Raleigh's own) Double Negative on March 6th at Kings Barcade, located at 14. W Martin Street. Tickets are $7 in advance/$8 day of show and are available online via Kingsbarcade.com or at Schoolkids Records, right here in Raleigh. Show is all ages and doors are at 8:30pm.