Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti
Before Today
4AD

Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti is Los Angles based multi-instrumentalist Ariel Pink (Ariel Marcus Rosenberg) and Kenny Gilmore (keys/guitar/vocals), Aaron Sperske (drums/vocals) and Tim Koh (bass/vocals). Before Today is their debut at a major indie label (4AD). But Pink's musical history derives as far back as 1996. With lo-fi home- recordings, that derived a following cult few artist are granted. Yet, there isn't much lo-fi sound left on Before Today. It is a well produced album. Still I can't imagine any of the earlier fans being disappointed about anything here, since Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti simply has made fabulous record.

Before Today is a mash-up of west-cost pop nostalgia, jazz, funk, and dark synth-rock with more than a touch of the eighties goth. The loops are almost Zappaesque, yet quite genuine. And alternative in the literal meaning of the word, without ever being pretentious or alienating. There is an unique playfulness in every tone. Like on the Rocking Ramrod's cover "Bright Lit Blue Skies", which is surf-pop as its meant to be, the funky "Beverly Kills", the pretty classic synth piece "I Can't Hear My Eyes", or the hilarious dark-toned "Menopause Man" where the title in it-self almost says it all.

Without doubt, Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti has made the most interesting album I've heard for a very long time. Every listening giving something new. And if that wasn't enough. Before Today is also a perfect sunny-funky summer soundtrack.

Copyright © 2010 Aslaug O Klausen