DANIELSON > Trying Hartz

Be forewarned: Danielson (a.k.a. Brother Danielson and the Danielson Famile) will scramble your conceptions of what Christian pop-or pop music in general-is supposed to sound like. Trying Hartz samples the first decade of work by this highly eccentric but often fascinating combo, making the case for their originality if not accessibility.Label: SECRETLY CANADIAN
[Rating: 3.5 Stars]

Be forewarned: Danielson (a.k.a. Brother Danielson and the Danielson Famile) will scramble your conceptions of what Christian pop-or pop music in general-is supposed to sound like. Trying Hartz samples the first decade of work by this highly eccentric but often fascinating combo, making the case for their originality if not accessibility. Leader Daniel Smith sings in a piercing Minnie Mouse-like falsetto, lending extra weirdness to his explorations of Biblical themes and personal insecurities. The tracks collected here flesh out minimalist melodies with jagged arrangements featuring xylophones, tinny organs and snare drums, suggesting a children’s pageant at an alternative Sunday school. Believe it or not, the results can be provocative and intriguing. Highlights include “Flip Flop Flim Flam” (a catchy tune akin to early Talking Heads), “Fetch the Compass Kids” (dreamy and elfin) and “Pottymouth” (a commentary on bowling and bad dating habits). For brave ears only.