Ms. John Soda, the moniker under which duo Micha Acher and Stephanie Boehm collaborate, will no doubt draw comparisons to both label mates Lali Puna and the other musical project of Acher, The Notwist. Their debut album, however, has a sound which distinguishes itself from both the Notwist and Lali Puna for its energetic pop-sensibilities over the loose jazz and clinical electronics of each, respectively.
Boehm (also known for her work as keyboardist for the band Couch) has a voice that is simple and honest, and does not compete, but compliments Acher's adept handling of a vast array of instruments. (It's worth noting Acher also plays piano, bass and various brass instruments in the Tied and Tickled Trio.) Ms John Soda are assisted on the release by an external drummer, flautist, and percussionist.
The most captivating of the album's tracks is without a doubt "Go Check," which is also among the most outstanding songs of the year (even if the lyrics are somewhat incomprehensible!). It's a psychedelic go-go pop masterpiece with tambourine and organ sounds that would make even Piero Umiliani [see trashy 1970s Italian film scores] proud. The retro indulgence on this track is an anomaly, however. "Solid Groud", which immediately follows, is a contagiously pretty ballad comprised of blips, piano and plucked violin sounds. Other songs such as "By Twos" are warm and dark with exotic touches of percussion while tunes like "Unsleeping" are jangly pop numbers.
The overall composition of the album is remarkable and, thanks to a group of agile and gifted musicians, results in an exceptionally listenable record. 'No P. or D.' ranks with the best of the Morr Music releases, and as the year draws to an end, I can now safely say this one will certainly make my top ten list.
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