Chicago band is led by keyboardist/programmer Preston Klik of the late Big Hat. Other members are: Christy Cameron Smith: vocals, Paul Fini: guitar and percussion, and Amy Spina: guitar, bass and percussion. Julie Schreiber (Axis) -- vocals and flute -- recently left the group to form a new project, called Jute. They recently released their third full-length album, Buzz Bomb on DivaNation Records. While the basic formula is the same as on their previous effort Trypnotica, MSL's production and song-writing have grown in the brief interval in between the two records. The ethereal guitars and keys are bit grittier this time out, giving the record as whole with an earthier, fuller feel, though fortunately without sacrificing the melodicism and downright pretty harmonies that have made their live shows and previous releases a standout. As usual, Klik's arrangements and samples are impeccable and contribute a great deal to the fullness of the sound and Smith and Schreiber's lovely voices blend beautifully. Fini and Spina provide their customary tight rhythms and outstanding, if often understated, guitar washes.
One outstanding track off the record, "Black Limbo" sounds like Debbie Harry sings Dead Can Dance over a tight hip-hop beat. "Ruby Kisses," "Where's My Lucky Star?," "Crushed Desire," "Other Worlds," and "Fire" are other stand-out tracks though the rest suffer very little in comparison. (Not bad when half the record stands out as superb). Rather than just a collection of good cuts, however, the record works very well as a whole; it is united by contagiously groovy beats underlying and driving a moody introspective sound-scape. The record is exactly what one would expect from the rapidly maturing sound of MSL: a very pretty trip with occasional harrowing detours into the depths of the psyche.
In the spring of '97 they released their second CD, Trypnotica, fusing new age ethereal mood music (Enya-esque) with exotic Middle Eastern overtones and beats. Still, add some hip-hop, soul and rock, and...well, just see them. Instruments such as a mandocello, flute, trombone, ukulele, melodica and drums appeared on the album, making for a unique and credit-worthy release. Their debut CD was called Reliquaries. They've also contributed a track to an upcoming Kate Bush tribute album.
For more information, visit their website: http://www.mcs.net/~msl
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