Friendly Rich is no stranger to the indie music scene. With a discography that dates back to 1990, his latest effort is definitely as offbeat as you’ve come to expect. The peppy chamber music combined with unique instruments (including a kazoo) give the songs a life of their own. They succeed in telling a story with no words, just sound. The tune The Ballad of the Unhatched Chicks is a hectic fast-paced flute and percussion song which paints the picture the title describes, while Baba Yaga throws out sinister bass notes accompanied by dark guitar strums to convey the dark nature of Slavic witch folklore. While its nonsensical songs keep it from being an album you’d listen to on the road or at a party, if you’re relaxing at home and want something to excite your imagination, this album is for you.

Published in Volume 64, Number 11 of The Uniter (November 12, 2009)