Colonel Jeffery Pumpernickel: A Concept Album CD

COLONEL JEFFREY PUMPERNICKEL features songs based on chapters of a story written by Chris Slusarenko.

Colonel Jeffrey Pumpernickel, the indie rock opera by Portland, Oregon's Chris Slusarenko, probably won't gain recognition for its storyline, but rather for the big-name talents that have created songs specifically for the project. "I always thought it would be interesting to listen to an album where different bands tell parts of a larger story, a concept album, in reverse," says Slusarenko, who is perhaps better known for his own musical endeavors, Svelt and Sprinkler. The resulting album is, indeed, interesting, if not the easiest plot to follow. Even so, from the anthem-like bookends contributed by Guided by Voices to impressive tracks by Quasi and Mary Timony, Pumpernickel has more talent than most projects comprised of various artists. It makes sense, then, that there are more successful tracks here than on most other compilations. Other highlights include songs by Grandaddy, Stephen Malkmus, the Minders, and the Black Heart Procession. ~ Jimmy Draper

Guided By Voices,Stephen Malku Lou Barlow,Ann Magnuson,

Performers include: Guided By Voices, Stephen Malkmus, Quasi, Ann Magnuson, Dave Rick Mary Timony, Howe Gelb, Sentridoh, Poster Children Minus 5, Grandaddy, The Black Heart Procession, Macha, Weird War, The Minders, Goldcard.

Personnel: Robert Pollard (vocals, guitar); Joshua McKay, Ann Magnuson (vocals); Michelle Mae (guitar, piano, background vocals); Dave Rick, Doug Gillard, Nate Farley, Charlie Campbell (guitar); Russell Pollard (synthesizer, drums); Mischo McKay, Roger Murdock (drums); Alex Minoff (background vocals).

Audio Mixers: Peter "Pops" Walsh; Goldcard; Scott McCaughey; Bruce MacFarlane.

Liner Note Author: Richard Meltzer.

Recording information: Dayton, OH; Portland, OR; Washington DC.

Unknown Contributor Roles: Janet Weiss; Peter Buck.