When Pretty Girls Make Graves jumped ship to Matador last year, it left quite a dent in the Lookout! roster. The label always seems to rebound though, and they have done it again with The Reputation. Led by Elizabeth Elmore of Sarge fame, this Chicago four piece plays catchy punk pop, but isn't afraid to let the piano slip in for a few ballads along the way. There is no sophomore slump here. To Force A Fate is 10 songs from a seasoned group of musicians who know exactly what they are doing.
Elmore's voice is the key, and it really shines here in top form. "Face It" is where the band hits their stride. It is an exceptional single, and is begging to become a hit. While guitarist Sean Hulet's backing vocals are a bit dry, and one or two of the songs drag a bit too long than necessary, the good definitely overshadows the bad here. "The Ugliness Kicking Around" is the highlight of the band's more somber material, and really hits the listener hard. This one's solid, check it out.
~Hugh (3/25/04)