Aqueduct
Or Give Me Death
(Barsuk)
The second full release from Seattle, Washington-based Aqueduct (AKA one-man-band David Terry) shows the influence of piano-driven ’60s pop with an ’80s synthesiser sound. It’s Brian Wilson wrapped in dry wit, resulting in satisfying tunes. A good example is the opening track “Lying in the Bed I’ve Made‚” where Terry sings “Sorry songs I sing to amuse myself‚” while his song “As You Wish” combines all the Beach Boys sensibility with lyrics that describe dismembering a body. Folks, these really are damn fine, catchy tunes. Given the choice of Aqueduct or death, I would heartily recommend that you choose Aqueduct.
—Aaron Hartling
This article appears in Dec 6-12, 2007.