Calvin Johnson & The Sons of The Soil
Self-Titled
K Records

This record was a treat because I wasn’t quite sure what to expect with Calvin Johnson’s latest musical undertaking. His background as frontman of the most relevant lo-fi poetry rock band Beat Happening and proprietor of K Records (and the notable International Pop Underground) has made him somewhat of an indie rock legend. This self-titled album is a remarkable release, but like I said – I didn’t really have any expectations. I was already familiar with Calvin and some of his other side projects, so I had no reason to assume this would be any different. His terribly deep voice is still bottomless (which is an acquired taste for most listeners), and his lyrics still have that familiar beat poetry aesthetic. His topsoil band has quickly adapted to Calvin’s inherent sound in order to help this album carry the load of his bass-filled vocals. For fans of Calvin Johnston, Beat Happening, or The Halo Benders (my personal favorite), you’ll dig the re-workings of some of his older material. Inimitable punk rock not to ignore. – Kelly D. Williams, Mannerist Zine

Category: Uncategorized, music