Structure Of Scientific Misconceptions/The System Of Scientific Misconstructions CD

As the last entry in ToYo Records' four-part Science Single Series, The Structure of Scientific Misconceptions/The System of Scientific Misconstructions offers up 13 tracks by six of the Left Coast's quirkiest and most promising punk-oriented acts, from experimental twitch rockers Erase Errata to Tae Won Yu's more pop-oriented solo project, KG. And while its grandiose title implies a conceptual framework surrounding the facts and fictions of scientific research, the compilation seems more concerned with artistic cohesion than offering up any philosophical takes on the subject at hand. And in terms of sonic consistency, at least, Structure succeeds like few other compilations do: these off-kilter robo-rock bands are all bizarrely original enough to hold their own, yet also sound as if they were intended to be heard in the same sci-fi context. Unfortunately, after two stellar contributions from the Bay Area's Erase Errata, the compilation disintegrates into a meandering, hit-or-miss mess. KG and the Devo-influenced duo MeMe America may also contribute worthy tracks, but the Need offer their two worst tracks, beat-tweakers Blectum From Blechdom's three songs never take off, and the four fairy tale tracks from Deerhoof are as frustratingly inane as ever. Which is ultimately why Structure is so disappointing: while the lineup may theoretically be readymade for such a compilation, most of the acts forget that sonic similarities alone do not a successful album make -- the songs themselves should be as engaging and entertaining as the sounds. ~ Jimmy Draper

Unknown Contributor Roles: Rachel; Radio.

Personnel: Satomi Matsuzaki (vocals, harmonica); Wynne Phillipe (vocals, keyboards); Radio (guitar); Rachel (drums).

Recording information: Dub Narcotic Studio, Olympia (07/1999-09/2000); House Of Faith Studios (07/1999-09/2000); Reassurance Studios, SF (07/1999-09/2000); The Slant House (07/1999-09/2000).