April 24–May 1, 1997
critical mass
Gus Gus
Though the songs range from drunken moody instrumentals to snide acid-jazzed whisperings and beyond, Polydistortion is seamlessly organic, perhaps held together by the delicately woven group production. Not unlike the Cardigans, this teamknows how to rob from previous pop generations and push it through the filter of technology. Unlike those Swedes, Gus Gus are happy to use old technology — grungy, analog-sounding synths — to keep things dirty. Bring out the rubber gloves."Believe" and "Remembrance," with their new-wave cowbells and distorted electronic pulse, throb along, brusquely attacking your speakers with the type of distorted groove that begs you to stay seated and just shake. "ColdBreath '79" lives up to its title with a chilly, early Chicago house bounce. Only a breathy girl's sirening drifts us quaintly away from the infectious pulse. Gus Gus is so chilled and dirty, you're gonna need a coat.
