Phonograph has carved out a niche for itself that falls somewhere between indie-rock, experimental electronica and alt-country, while still staying true to the sounds of stripped-down Americana. Led by singer/guitarist Matthew Welsh, Phonograph formed in 2005 after the rest of the group — guitar, pedal steel, bass/keyboards and drums — was introduced to him through an engineer at the studio where Welsh was recording. A chance meeting with Wilco bassist John Stirratt landed Phonograph a slot as an opener on Wilco's national tour, where it earned consistent praise for its inventive songwriting and captivating stage presence.
Released earlier this year, Phonograph's self-titled debut sounds surprisingly assured for the work of such a new band. Balancing out synths and pedal-steel with a twangy roots-pop sensibility, the disc impresses with both the depth of its songwriting and the impeccable musicianship that backs it up.
Copyright 2007 XPN
