Entertainment Breaking News

The Canadian Press - ONLINE EDITION

Music Review: New York-based quartet The Virgins fall short on 2nd album, 'Strike Gently'

By: James H. Collins, The Associated Press

Monday, Mar. 11, 2013 at 2:12 PM | Comments: 0

This CD cover image released by Cult Records shows The Virgins' "Strike Gently". (AP Photo/Cult Records)

The Virgins, "Strike Gently" (Cult Records/Frenchkiss Label Group)

The best thing about the New York quartet The Virgins is Donald Cummings' adept angular guitar playing. In spots it's pleasantly reminiscent of Richard Hell's inventive work in television, or even the David Byrne/Jerry Harrison combination in Talking Heads — and it's clear there's a post-punk New York esthetic that The Virgins are mining. It is, after all, their hometown.

"Strike Gently" is their second full-length effort, and it is considerably more down-tempo than their 2008 debut. Much of the sexy dance beats from the first record have been shelved in favour of slower attempts at contemplative songs like "The Beggar" or "Amelia."

Cummings sings in an Iggy-esque basso that has a little too much reverb, or doubling effect, in places, and isn't nearly as captivating. The verses with the sharp and often ornamental guitar licks unfortunately devolve into the most banal of choruses — like a television tune with a Rick Springfield refrain. There are plenty of New York stories for a creative guitarist and vocalist to discover and transform into something unique and listenable. Sadly, "Strike Gently" fails to deliver.

___

Follow James H. Collins on Twitter at twitter.com/jimcollinsap

Rate this
This article has not yet been rated.

We want you to tell us what you think of our articles. If the story moves you, compels you to act or tells you something you didn’t know, mark it high. If you thought it was well written, do the same. If it doesn’t meet your standards, mark it accordingly.

You can also register and/or login to the site and join the conversation by leaving a comment.

Rate it yourself by rolling over the stars and clicking when you reach your desired rating. We want you to tell us what you think of our articles. If the story moves you, compels you to act or tells you something you didn’t know, mark it high.

Sort by: Newest to Oldest | Oldest to Newest | Most Popular 0 Comments

You can comment on most stories on brandonsun.com. You can also agree or disagree with other comments. All you need to do is register and/or login and you can join the conversation and give your feedback.

There are no comments at the moment. Be the first to post a comment below.

Post Your Comment

The Brandon Sun does not necessarily endorse any of the views posted. Comments are moderated before publication. By submitting your comment, you agree to our Terms and Conditions. New to commenting? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions.