Viva La Music!

Wes Cornett, Up & Coming Weekly, April 3-9, 2002 April 03, 2002
In music, much like love, beauty is in the eye of the beholder...or beerholder. Well, when I listen to an album it usually triggers some kind of intellectual thought, and Viva La Venus's The Never Ending Mending Story was no different. It really made me realize that no matter what, if the music is good you will listen whether it's top 40 or not.

The Never Ending Mending Story is the first offering from Viva La Venus and their record label, Shiny Pants Records. The story behind the album is one of almost comical proportions. Between cigarettes, pizza and label makers the girls had an interesting time putting the record together, and I think you will find this personalization to be endearing when you give the album a spin.

The album was completely produced by the ladies, which is something that definitely comes out when listening to the CD. The recordings could use some cleaning up, but then again the roughness brings something to the album. The unpolished sound makes it feel more original and "real." Vocal miscues are the only other downer of The Never Ending Mending Story, however there are more than enough positives to make-up for these few lows.

My personal favorite track is "Dance." This song is more infectious than the chicken pox when you're 10 years old. It contains an unbelievable melody and a hook that you will wake up in the morning singing. "Step on Me" is a slow post- grunge ballad that is almost reminiscent of Fiona Apple. " Meat Loaf Night" is by far the most intriguing song on the CD. It combines a very Green Day riff with vocals that remind you of, Rock and Roll Hall of Famers, The Ramones.

You can go on-line to www.cdbaby.com and pick up a copy of the CD. For more information on these ladies go to www.vivalavenus.com.


©Up & Coming Magazine 2002