However, they don't deny their own musical heritage either. For underneath a great deal of the wild and wooly playing, the music almost constantly swings along to a beat reminiscent of 1920s and '30s jazz. On this disc you can hear influences from the Dixieland stylings of New Orleans to the dance bands of Harlem from those eras. What's really quite amazing though is while this sounds like an incredible hodgepodge of styles and traditions to cram within one recording, an almost sure recipe for chaos, the result is a delight to listen to. Caravan Of Thieves has managed to blend everything together to make a vibrant and exciting sound with twice the energy and intensity of any rock and roll band.
Musically inventive, lyrics full of sly humour and gentle cynicism and all served up on a platter garnished to reflect the dark mysteries of a travelling carnival make this one of the more entertaining listens I've had in a while. It's not often you find a band whose sense of humour and intelligence are matched by both their musical talents and an ability to put spurs to their listener's imaginations. You not only listen to their lyrics and appreciate their music, but you find yourself visualizing the atmosphere they create. When you put this record on, be prepared. You sure won't be in Kansas anymore.
(Band photo by Michael Wientrob)
Article comments
1 - Kate
Great review, but to truly appreciate Caravan of Thieves, you MUST see them live. As wonderful as the album is, their shows are the most entertaining, theatrical, beyond-the-box events I've ever been to.
2 - Dave
Check out their music video too!