When I first started listening to Poison Control Center I found myself drawn to it because it kind of made me uncomfortable but still really curious. The Iowa based rockers make really intense music that buzzes with a level of energy you can almost feel right through the speakers. I did eventually adjust to PCCs flavor of punk and with the discomfort abated the allure only grew – I should note seeing them live also served to stoke those fires. When Stranger Ballet came across the wire I was super excited to see what the fellas had to offer since they had promised me something fresh. They were not kidding.
Every single track on this album is evidence Poison Control Center has matured into a really fucking fantastic band. Pulling in a little more of a classic rock/alt country vibe than they have in the past mellows out their punk anxious hearts, and guitars, just enough to push their lyrics forward. The lyrics even get a bit of spit and polish on this album which really serves the groups talent really well – instead of conflicting with all the instruments there is a better balance between vocals and instrumentals. The steal guitar wheedling away in the background on tracks like “Church On Mars” and “Born On Date” takes the pieces to a dreamier level than I have ever heard in PCC. This is by far the most accessible album they’ve put out which in no way means it’s dumbed down for the average listener. On the contrary, Stranger Ballet is refined to a point that should get PCC the recognition and adoration of the masses. That being said I still fully expect plenty of splits and summersaults while playing their next Philly gig – cause you know their crazy little hearts are still behind every note.
[MP3] Church On Mars
[MP3] Born On Date
PCC rules…with an iron fist!
Totally, have you seen them live?
So stoked to get this record, I’ve loved PCC for years and their albums just keep getting better and better. One of my all time favorite live bands too!