Something Slanted This Way Comes is the latest release by The Slants. The Portland originated band consists of founder and bassist Simon Tam, drummer Tyler Chen, new guitarist Joe X. Jiang and new vocalist Ken Shima. Together they comprise the first and so far only all Asian American dance rock band, a genre they refer to as “Chinatown Dance Rock.”
As we previously reported, Something Slanted This Way Comes is a compilation of re-recorded songs from three previous albums. These new versions were recorded with the new band members, Jiang and Shima, as well as a new producer, Stephen Hawkes. According to Tam:
“Rather than just being a typical ‘best of’ album, we went back to re-record and re-imagine the songs. It gave us a chance to reflect the musical growth of our band as well as reflect our actual lineup. It also allowed us to work with producer Stephan Hawkes who helped make our music sound bigger than ever.”
For anyone familiar with The Slants’ previous albums, the bigger sound of the new recordings is more than obvious. They have a heavier, fuller, and smoother sound that brings the vocals to the forefront. The vocals now have a deeper tone and articulate the words in a way that makes following along with the lyrics easier. Listen to the video recordings below to hear the differences for yourself.
What The Slants have dubbed as “Chinatown Dance Rock” is reminiscent of '80s synth pop/rock, but is really difficult to classify within any one genre. They attempt to combine the beats, rhythms, vocals, and characteristic sounds of alternative dance, indie rock, punk/pop and electronica. As a result, there music seems to either captivate or repulse fans of those individual genres. Their music is functional, but not just as a creative form of dance rock. It also gives them a forum for sharing their experiences as Asian Americans, and bringing to light social justice issues. For more information about their accomplishments and efforts, check out their website at www.theslants.com .
Rating their music is just as difficult as trying to fit them into an already established genre. Although I have enjoyed listening to their music, I have to admit, it’s not what I’d want to listen to just any old time. Honestly, I think I’m more impressed with the band members themselves, who are intelligent, driven, and talented. They have a purpose at a time when one is needed. If you want to listen to thought provoking lyrics, or you like analyzing music, I would recommend them to you. If you prefer standard radio music, then The Slants probably aren’t for you. Overall, I would give them a 3.5 because their music is good. It’s inventive, and worthy of checking out, but it’s also definitely not for everyone. With the whole number scale, I’m bumping it up to a four due to the fact that it is anything but average.
A video recording of “You Make Me Alive” from the album Pageantry. Pay attention to the instrumental interlude beginning around two and a half minutes into the song.
This is the same song re-recorded for Something Slanted This Way Comes with the heavier, fuller sound I described previously, especially during that interlude. See if you can hear the difference, and please feel free to leave your comments below.