They appear to be fond of the nonsensical, so mold things to their own random whims

Artist: Rah Bras
Album: WHOHM
Label: Lovitt Records
Tracks: 11
Length: 31:10

Rah Bras are a queer little band. They appear to be fond of the nonsensical, so mold things to their own random whims. Past albums bearing their name have the quirky level close to that of Spinal Tap’s volume control (that is, 11) however “WHOHM” tones down and smoothes out some of their more disturbing trends in favor of a more subtle approach. Rather like Apple offering the iPod Nano and the beefy iPod Video in all of it’s full, glorious splendor. Still, your average rock band Rah Bras is not, regardless of their slim-line makeover.

This album reminds me of a heavier and more electronic Milemarker (“Anaesthetic” era), while transforming their essence into fist pumping anthems with the same sensibility of the good Andrew W.K. songs. But don’t see that comparison as a recommendation for Andrew W.K. fans… this is definitely weirder and quite a bit more underground and D.I.Y. than most of them would appreciate.

Rah Bras is a trio and the lead singer Ballarah (all of the members have “Rah” somewhere in their name which I’m about 85% sure is not on any of their birth certificates) sings with steady urgency, except when the vocals seem to have an added distortion effect on them. It seems to work well with the music to an extent that the handful of tracks where she isn’t singing start lacking that necessary human connection.

While this album doesn’t quite re-invent the wheel, it’s just strange enough to be really enjoyable. Pick this up if you want something familiar and strange all at the same time.