Ludettes is the musical project of Los Angeles-based Doug Roj, who spent the 2020 lockdown creating this debut release titled Dirty White Cleveland. This ‘mixtape’ style album also features songwriting contributions from Nico Walker. The songs here “…reflect life decisions of a neurotic, cast out of his hometown by the nefarious dealings of family and friends.” Recording took place at Roj’s home in the Los Feliz area of Los Angeles, just a stone’s throw from where I sit.
Not sure if this was intentional, but I keep wanting to call these guys “luddites” which broadly refers to people suspicious of new technology. It sort of fits, as these songs feel like they came from the ’80s 4-track cassette heyday, reflecting both that era’s creative mania and technical limitations. Roj didn’t share how these songs were recorded, but I assume he used something like GarageBand and kept throwing ideas against the wall until something stuck. The sound quality is both clean and haphazardly grungy, and the inclusion of a live accordion is unique and fun. I’d compare Ludettes to Ween, but with a slightly less jaundiced world view. I won’t pretend that ALL these songs and performances are ready for prime time, but the wild creativity on view warms my cockles. The opening song “Dirty Cleveland” is kind of the title track with lyrics that point far afield of Roj’s Los Angeles home. “Plight of others would astound you / Even though it’s Saturday / Have respect for those around you / Riding on the RTA.” The vibe is laid back and vaguely R&B with Roj’s untutored vocals purposely exaggerated over gentle pads of guitar and keyboards. “Victor Quaalude” counts down to harder rock with what sounds like a live drum kit. I’m always impressed when artists forgo drum machines but I wish they’d credit themselves for the effort! This song sets the template for most of the following tracks: smartass vocals and a steady wall of fuzzy, flanged electric guitar. “Those Teeth” has an improbable island feel with Roj’s accordion adding welcome new colors. This is a song about trying to control one’s temper, and I can certainly relate to the line: “Even when I hit the wall / I love you.” “Mudflap Girl” is a fun, catchy tune about those shiny silhouette girls on big rigs; just over a minute, but a great idea. “Claw Machine” has a constructed beat that evokes some sort of machine, and is borderline over modulated. However, this song has some of the most fun synth patches at the end, which sadly cut off just as they’re getting started. “Rock n’ Roll Is A White Lie” changes gears into a Beatles-like mellotron lament. The lyrics are vague enough that this could be about rock n’ roll filling the holes in our lives, or the idea that we’re all living in a computer simulation. “Dirty White Bricks” feels like the song most likely to end up on alternative radio, though it’s again dependent on thick slabs of flanged guitar. “From the Brat” features a simple lyrical conceit about bad girlfriends and bad crowds, but the unusual arrangement features an echo-drenched wall of slide guitars. Just two minutes but it could have been longer! “Mandy Mallard” features a really fun Casio-style riff that cycles throughout the song, changing tempo at will. Fun lyrics about a friendly mallard recall Tony Soprano’s obsession with his swimming pool ducks. “No Pleasing’ Some” features a spinning, dizzy Mutron-style guitar at its core. I do like the guitar playing but sometimes wish for a bit more variety in the guitar’s recording method, which tends to start at the start and end at the end. “Goodie Gumdrops” concludes the album with one of the most Ween-like songs, like bubble gum pop from a psych ward. I love the central riff even though it’s treated as just another wacky component of the song. I hesitate to make any stern pronouncements on this album, as I salute unbridled creativity and did enjoy these songs. Perhaps going forward these guys might spend a little more time on their catchiest riffs and diversify their arrangements, but what we have right now is worthy and entertaining.
0 Comments
Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
Leave a Reply. |
Critique/insightWe are dedicated to informing the public about the different types of independent music that is available for your listening pleasure as well as giving the artist a professional critique from a seasoned music geek. We critique a wide variety of niche genres like experimental, IDM, electronic, ambient, shoegaze and much more.
Are you one of our faithful visitors who enjoys our website? Like us on Facebook
Archives
May 2024
|