The self titled first album of Presidents of the United States
is a collection of sarcasm and tongue in cheek humor. Their
stylings range from a Primus-like grunge sound to the sixties beat
of the Rolling Stones. It is this kind of eclectic sound to their
music, backed up by the innovative effects of their two and three
stringed guitars, that make Presidents stand out in the alternative
crowd. Hailing from Seattle, these guys are no Nirvana or Pearl
Jam wanna-bes. Instead they appear to be a band in for a good
time. Their themes revolve around spiders (and or bugs), peaches
and cats. It is this kind of quirky topic selection that draws a
wide variety of listeners to this group. The album truly qualifies
for one of the quirkiest of the year. There are no political
agendas to be met here. This album is a prerequisite for those who
want to simply kick back and enjoy the ride.
The President's live are an even bThe President's live are an even better deal than their album,
which is saying a lot. Their cover versions of seventies funk and
reggae classics were received well by the audience. But it was
their own songs that the crowd responded to the most. The Utah
crowd was apparently well-versed in the Presidents songs because
virtually everyone around me in the crowd had well-worn versions
of the CD. And the energy from the crowd was the highest level I
have experienced since I attended the "Reverend Horton Heat"
several months ago. The price was a bargain for a night of
pumping rhythm that I soon won't forget.
