Llama Train - Siren Sounds

In a past life, Knoxville's Llama Train might have been a jam band; they have the musical chops to play long-form improv without faltering or repeating themselves, and their repetoire includes Birkenstock-rock nuggets from the likes of Chris Robinson and the Grateful Dead. But somewhere in transit between that past life and this one, these fellows learned a lesson or two about songwriting and showmanship, things that too many patchouli rockers overlook in their droning quest for Jerry's muse. The result: the guys in Llama Train rock unapologetically, and they have fun doing it, trading off instruments as easily as most bands might pass around a bottle of cheap hooch. - MG, Metro Pulse, November 2006 Llama Train releases new CD Zachary Zoeller - Art and Entertainment Editor "Siren Sounds" is as cohesive as double-sided tape, and a very solid debut. At seven tracks, it's more than an EP but not quite a full length, leaving the listener wanting more. It was recorded with Don Coffey at his Independent Recorders studio, which could be the reason for much of it's sharp edges and clean performances. It starts with "Green Ghosts," a straight-ahead rocker with keyboards and vocal harmonies floating through it's crunchy guitars. "Days Become Our Nights," whose keyboard is a highlight of the CD, is a radio-ready pop number, singing, "If the Dali rocked we'd gawk all night/ When his bald head shines we'll be all right/ Cause then he'd share his holy light/ And turn our days into our nights." The guitar lines abound on "Metal Minds," which contains an irresistible dance beat and some of Llama Train's' best melodies. The band seems at home with this track as well as the following "Techno," and both songs show some of their most creative moments. "Delay" sounds like the lost track from R.E.M.'s "Murmur" with it's jangly guitars and pop hooks.

1) Green Ghosts
2) Lifesource
3) Days Become Our Nights
4) Metal Minds
5) Techno
6) Caravan
7) Delay