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Where Is My Mind?

Ahh yes, it's another creature from the unremitting world of tribute records. Glue Factory presents a tribute to The Pixies -- the band that should've been plastered across every "alternative" radio station in America, but were too early for the alt-rock invasion. Where Is My Mind matches up some of the radio darlings of the 90's with some of college radio's indie-rock buzz bands. Tribute records are like musical surgery, as each band attempts to transplant its distinct sound into another band's art, producing a Frankenstein of a tune with a dual personality. CD openers Eve 6 stumble through a lackluster rendition of "Allison" that is simply forgettable -- its lifeless form passes quietly through your ears. Reel Big Fish turn "Gigantic" into a dancy, compressed track that doesn't move anything except your finger to the "Next Track" button on your player. But fear not -- all is not lost, as Weezer's patented fuzzed-out guitars create a version of "Velouria" that sounds like a perfectly executed original. Superdrag rip through "Wave of Mutilation" with surprising virulence, and Samiam apply vibrant pop-punk to the classic "Here Comes Your Man." With appearances by Promise Ring, The Get-Up Kids and Local H, there's enough proficiency here to make the Pixies grin with satisfaction and rabid fans nod their heads in harmonious agreement.

Various Artists
Where Is My Mind? A Tribute to the Pixies
Glue Factory
CD

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Review by Andrew Magilow

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