Califone sticks to its 'Roots'

For a band that has remained under the radar for the better part of a decade, Califone has accepted its indie status and successfully embraced its acoustic-driven, post-rock spirit. After many members played together in blues-influenced Red Red Meat throughout most of the 1990s, they morphed into a roots-based set-up in 1998, hailing from Chicago.\nFrontman and principal songwriter Tim Rutili's voice bares an uncanny resemblance to Wilco's Jeff Tweedy on most tracks. The indifferent, seemingly hollow delivery creates an eerie feeling, but at least Rutili's words don't mention his girlfriend's black eye and other domestic disturbance-related lines. To call Rutili whimsical would be grossly understated. He's worked as a music video director, a truck washer, a furniture mover and a pizza delivery boy. And he maintains a keen interest in dwarves.\nRoots and Crowns is attractive because it's not overproduced, which usually happens when there are enough knick-knacky instruments to fill an entire kindergarten music class. Just to name a few unconventional sound-makers employed by the 10 musicians on the album, there are oak chimes, zuni rattles, a Cajun accordion, a bowed balalaika and a bronze fork. Oh, and don't forget the ribbon crasher. While an assortment of instruments speckles most numbers, Brian Deck's flawless performance as producer and mixer graciously leaves crucial components in the forefront, namely guitar, piano, bass, and occasional drums. \nNaturally, Rutili's offbeat personality permeates his music. The lyrics flow in a nonsensical manner, weaving together like a Dadaist poem. On paper, they might appear like a child's incomplete thoughts, as in "Burned by the Christians" line: "Sung throated air down your spine crown cooks light/We wolfed and whale bellied on we shone down." On record, however, the words team up with a cornucopia of instruments to create a visceral combination.\nThe first half of the album takes on a linear approach, and the songs follow traditional arrangements. On the other hand, the second half develops an imaginary feel. "If You Would" doesn't even seem to develop a consistent rhythm but adopts a drone mixed with several odd instruments. The haunting banjo tone in "Rose Pedal Ear" compliments Rutili's uncharacteristic tenor quality.\nLike ninjas, Califone makes use of its surroundings. Within those surroundings (aka the studio), the band creates vibrant space in songs like "Our Kitten Sees Ghosts" and "3Legged Animals." Sound and substance are a high priority for Califone. Some of the tracks may not be the most memorable, but they certainly aren't nauseating. From start to finish, it's a well-made album from a lesser known band.